LIBRARY  OF  THE  THEOLOGICAL  SEMINARY 


PRINCETON,  N.  J. 


BX  8958  .K48  H5  1888 

A  History  of  the  Presbytery 
of  Kittanning  of  the 


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CONTENTS. 

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P-.iare. 

PREFATORY  NOTES ^ 

THE  PRESBYTERY:— 

Geographical  and  Industrial 1^ 

Presbyterial  Boundaries  and  Connections...... 17 

Synodical   Connections , • ••••  1° 

Planting  and  Growth  of  Churches 19 

Organization  of  Presbytery 2^ 

Roll  of  Ministers • ^4 

Officers  of  Presbytery..., • 27 


Roll  of  Churches. 


29 


Commissioners  to  General  Assembly 31 

Commissioners  to  Synod  of  Pennsylvania 32 

Contributions  to   the  Ministry 33 

OK 

Licensures "^"^ 

Ordinations ••••  37 

Other   Contributions 39 

Meetings  of  Presbytery "10 

Special  Services • • ^3 

Action  on  Overtures....... *7 

Temperance • ^'^ 

Record  in  the  War  for  the  Union -  58 

Miscellany •- • "^ 

Summary  of  Statistics 66 

Women's  Home  Missionary  Society 68 

Women's  Foreign  Missionary  Society... - 71 

Centenary  Discourse  of  Gospel  Work  and  Workers 79 

CHURCHES:— 

Apollo  (formerly  Warren) 95 

Appleby  Manor 106 

Atwood 11^ 

Bethel 112 


6  CONTENTS. 


CHURCHES:— 

Bethesda lib 

Blacklick  120 

Boiling  Spring 122 

Brady's  Bend 127 

Centre l^JO 

Cherry    Run 133 

Cherry  Tree 136 

Clarksburg 140 

Clinton 144 

Concord 149 

Crooked  Creek 156 

CurrJe's  Run 160 

East  Union 16b 

Ebenezer 170 

Elder's  Ridge 176 

Elderton 184 

Freeport 189 

Gilgal 196 

Glade    Run 200 

Harmony 218 

Homer 222 

Indiana 227 

Jacksonville 235 

Kittanning,  First 238 

Kittanning,  Second 245 

Leechburg 249 

Mahoning 259 

Marion 261 

Mechanic!?burg 265 

Middle  Creek 267 

Midway 270 

Mount  Pleasant 272 

Parker  City  (formerly  Ebenezer,  Lawrenceburg) 277 

Parnassus 287 

Pine  Grove 288 

Pine  Run 289 

Plum  Creek  (Armstrong  County) 291 

Pium  Creek  (Westmoreland  County) 293 


CONTENTS.  7 

CHURCHES:— 

Pag-e. 

Plumville gg- 

^^^'"^ 298 

Rockbridge o^^ 

Rural    Valley 3^^ 

Saltsburg .>^._, 

Slate  Lick „„.. 

Smicksburg .3„r> 

Srader's  Grove o^-i 

341 

Strongstdwn 04^ 

Tunnelton .,.- 

d45 

Union .3._ 

Washington g^^ 

West  Glade   Run orq 

West  Lebanon of.Br 

Worthington o„(, 

SCHOOLS:— 

Columbia  University or^- 

Covode   Academy q„„ 

Elder's   Ridge  Academy o«o 

Glade  Run  Academy oo„ 

Indiana  Classical  School.  .  .^^ 
405 

Leechburg  Institute -„„ 

402 

Saltsburg   Memorial  Institute .q-. 

Slate  Lick  Classical  Institute ..r- 

Blairsville  Ladies'  Seminary .qn 

-     Dayton  Soldiers'  Orphan  School .^i 

Dayton    Union  Academy .^ 

Doaneville  Seminary .^, 

'  421 

Elderton  Academy . 

Freeport  Academv .^„ 

422 

Greenville  Academy 


Indiana  County  Normal  School -op 


422 

3l 

Indiana  State  Normal  School 

423 


423 

Jacksonville  Academy 

Kittanning  Academy ._ 

Lambeth    College 

Rural  Valley  Academy .^ 

Worthington  Academy 


PREFATORY   NOTES. 


The  following  compilation  was  undertaken  by  the  Presby- 
tery in  compliance  with  a  suggestion  made  by  the  General 
Assembly  in  1886,  that  in  view  of  the  Assembly's  Centennial 
to  be  celebrated  at  the  meeting  in  1888,  "  Churches,  Presby- 
teries and  Synods  which  have  not  recenth'  done  so,  arrange 
for  the  collection  and  publication  of  the  facts  of  their  history." 
Presbytery  at  its  meeting  October  13th,  1886,  referred  this 
suggestion  or  request  to  its  Permanent  Committee  on  History, 
consisting  of  Rev.  A.  Donaldson,  D.  D.,  D.  H.  Sloan  and  D. 
Hall,  D.  D.  To  this  committee,  "and  with  reference  to  this 
special  work  entrusted  to  them,  Rev.  S.  W.  Miller,  D.  D.,  was 
added  Jime  29th,  1887.  This  committee  offered  a  report 
October  12th,  1887,  which  was  adopted,  setting  forth  the 
features  deemed  desirable  in  the  contemplated  work,  and 
containing  suggestions  to  pastors,  sessions,  or  other  persons 
preparing  histories  of  churches,  so  as  to  secure,  as  far  as 
possible,  uniformity  of  method  and  of  matter. 

It  has  not  been  the  object  of  the  writers  of  the  historical 
sketches  herein  contained  to  philosophize  or  moralize,  to 
indulge  in  extended  reflections,  or  to  supply  the  full  local  and 
personal  details  that  often  constitute  the  chief  charm  of  history, 
but  rather  to  make  note  in  order  of  such  leading  facts  as  are 
most  worthy  of  record  and  remembrance.  One  of  the  sug- 
gestions of  the  Presbytery  to  all  writers  was  that  they  confine 
themselves  chiefly  to  "  essential  facts,"  and  that  these  be 
"  tersely "  stated.  Some  of  the  writers  construed  this 
suggestion  more  strictly  than  others,  and  it  therefore  happens 
that    some    of    the    histories    of    churches    and     schools    are 


10  HISTORY    OK    THK 


relatively  more  brief  than  they  would  have  been  if  all  had 
lome  from  the  same  pen.  On  the  other  hand,  the  greater 
comparative  length  of  some  of  the  histories,  in  most  or  all 
cases,  finds  its  justification  in  the  age  of  the  churches  or 
schools  and  the  relatively  larger  number  of  facts  to  he 
recorded.  It  is  also  to  be  remembered  that  these  older 
churches  stand  as  mothers  to  others  that  have  grown  out  of 
them  or  sprung  up  around  them,  and  their  history  is  to  be 
regarded  as  the  antecedent  histor}'  of  the  younger  organiza- 
tions. 

It  is  proper  to  be  remarked  that  ihe  following  pages,  or 
many  of  them,  afford  illustration  of  the  fact  that  some  men 
labor  and  other  men  enter  into  their  labors.  Of  some  of  tbe 
churches  previous  histories  had  been  prepared,  and  in  a  few 
cases  published.  Especially  in  1876,  the  Centennial  year  of 
this  union  of  States,  many  pastors  acting  on  the  suggestion  of 
the  General  Assembl}^  had  prepared  and  delivered  historical 
discourses,  and  of  these  the  following  were  on  file  in  the 
hands  of  the  Stated  Clerk  of  Presbyterv,  viz.:  Elder's  Ridge 
and  West  Lebanon,  by  Rev.  A.  Donaldson,  D.  D.:  Glade 
Run,  by  Rev.  G.  W.  Mechlin,  D.  D. :  Ebenezer  and  Clarks- 
burg, by  Rev.  13.  J.  Irwin,  D.  D.;  Leechburg  and  Clinton,  by 
Rev.  D.  H.  Sloan;  Kittanning,  First,  bv  Rev.  T.  D.  Ewing; 
Freeport,  bv  Rev.  J.  J.  Francis;  Slate  Lick,  bv  Rev.  B.  F. 
Hoyle;  Jacksonville  and  Bethel,  by  Rev.  F.  Orr;  Rural  Vallev, 
by  Rev.  J.  Horner  Kerr;  Parker  City,  by  Rev.  S.  A.  Hughes; 
Harmony  and  Bethesda,  by  Rev.  B.  S.  Sloan:  Marion,  bv 
Rev.  A.  H.  Jolly.  Moreover,  in  1873,  at  a  meeting  of  Pres- 
bj'tery  held  in  April  of  that  year,  Rev.  A.  Donaldson,  I).  I).. 
presented  a  brief  history  of  the  churches  of  the  Presbvtery 
during  the  then  completed  thirty-five  years  of  his  connection 
with  it,  which  history  in  connection  with  other  material  was 
published.  He  also  in  1874  prepared  and  published  a  history 
of  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville.  All  the  rnaterial  thus  indi- 
cated has,  to  a  greater  or  less  extent  been  laid  under  tribute. 
The    credit  due  to  these  writers,  so  far  as  they  are  different 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  11 

from  those  whose  names  now  appear  in  connection  with 
the  several  sketches,  is  hereby  generally  given.  For  all  that 
appears  in  the  following  pages  that  is  not  otherwise  desig- 
nated the  present  Stated  Clerk  of  Presbvtery,  Rev.  D.  H. 
Sloan,  is  responsible. 

In  a  work  covering  a  period  of  about  a  century,  and  in- 
cluding so  many  names  and  dates,  it  would  be  presumption  to 
claim  that  infallible  accuracy  has  been  attained  as  to  ever\- 
particular.  But  us  a  rule,  or  always,  when  definite  dates  are 
given  they  have  been  well  ascertained.  Some  slight  repetition 
may  be  noticed  by  the  careful  reader,  owing  chiefly  to  the  fact 
that  different  writers  had  occasion  to  refer  to  the  same  pastors 
in  connection  with  different  churches,  or  othej-vvise  incidentalh' 
to  traverse  some  part  of  the  ground  touched  b\'  others.  But 
as  the  amount  of  such  repetition  is  reiati\'ely  very  small,  the 
papers,  for  the  most  part,  are  given  as  originally  prepared, 
and  without  that  nice  adjustment  of  material  that  would  be 
expected  if  the  whole  were  the  work  of  a  single  pen. 

Brief,  and,  in  some  respects,  inadequate  as  this  work  is,  it 
is  believed  that  it  will  be  not  without  interest  to  the  people  of 
our  several  churches  and  to  many  elsewhere,  and  that  it  mav 
serve  as  a  useful  memorial  of  the  virtual  completion  of  the  first 
century  of  the  occupancy  by  the  Presbyterian  Church  of  the 
territory  now  within  the  limits  of  the  Presbyterv  of  Kittan- 
ning.  D.    H.  S. 


HISTORY 

OF     THE 


Presbytery  of  Kittanning, 

I  T  S 

CHURCHES    AND    SCHOOLS. 


THE   PRESBYTERY. 


BY    REV.    D.    H.    SLOAN. 


Geographical  and  Industrial. 


The  present  boundaries  of  this  Presbytery  are  identical 
with  those  of  the  two  counties  of  Armstrong  and  Indiana  in 
the  state  of  Pennsylvania,  except,  that  a  small  portion  of  the 
latter  county  at  the  southern  border,  about  one-tenth  of  the 
whole  in  extent,  and  separated  from  the  rest  of  the  county  by 
Blacklick  creek,  is  attached  to  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville. 
The  Allegheny  river,  a  noble  and  historic  stream,  flows 
through  the  western  border  of  the  Presbytery  in  a  southerly 
direction,  dividing  the  county  of  Armstrong  into  unequal  parts, 
the  part  west  of  the  river  being  about  a  third  of  the  whole. 
The  Kiskiminitis  river  with  its  chief  branch,  the  Conemaugh, 
and  Blackhck  as  above,  constitute  its  southern  boundary. 
Redbank  creek  touches  it  on  the  north,  Mahoning,  Pine, 
Cowanshannock    and    Crooked    creeks    flow    throusfh    the 


14  HISTORY    OF    THE 


Presbytery  from  the  east  into  the  Allegheny,  while  from  the 
west  it  receives  Bear,  Sugar  and  Buffalo  creeks  as  tributaries. 
Twolick  creek  flows  southwardly  through  Indiana  county  into 
Blacklick.  Of  these  tributaries  of  the  Allegheny  Hon.  J.  B. 
Neale,  President  Judge  of  Armstrong  county  in  an  address 
delivered  at  Leechburg,  November  19th,  1887,  said,  "These 
tributaries,  extending  like  so  many  arms  on  either  side,  reach 
out  beyond  both  the  eastern  and  western  limits  of  the  connty, 
drain  every  portion,  furnish  abundant  water  supply  for  con- 
sumption and  motive  power,  cut  in  twain  the  vast  uplands,  and 
thus  facilitate  and  make  easily  practicable  mining  operations, 
and  finally  are  capable,  by  means  of  dams  and  chutes  of  bear- 
ing upon  their  bosoms  the  rich  products  of  the  earth  and  soil 
underlying  and  growing  upon  the  soil  through  which  tiiey 
flow."  Indiana  county,  a  little  east  of  its  centre,  is  traversed 
in  a  northeasterly  direction  by  Chestnut  Ridge,  the  western- 
most chain  of  the  great  mountciin  system  that  traverses  the 
state  of  Pennsylvania. 

The  surface  of  the  territory  included  in  the  Presbytery  is 
thus  considerably  diversified.  The  following  language  of 
Judge  Neale,  while  originally  used  of  only  one  of  the  counties 
in  the  Presbytery,  may  be  applied  to  both :  "  Much  the  larger 
proportion  of  the  land  embraced  within  these  limits  is  rugged 
and  hilly,  but  the  surface  nearly  throughout  is  susceptible  of 
high  and  profitable  cultivation.  In  every  section  of  the  count} 
many  farms  can  be  found  hardly  surpassed  in  excellence  and 
fertility  elsewhere  in  the  State.  Every  variety  of  fruit  and 
vegetation  peculiar  to  this  latitude  can  be  successfulh-  culti- 
vated; woods  of  every  species  indigenous  to  this  climate 
constitute  a  valuable  production  of  the  soil,  whilst  the  fertile 
acreage  of  tilled  land  is  ever  generous  in  unfailing  crops  of 
food-vielding  products.  In  recent  years  the  adaptation  of  the 
soil  to  grazing  and  pasturage  has  afforded  substantial  encour- 
agement to  stock  raising  and  wool  growing,  so  that  to-da) 
Armstrong  county  may  compete  with  most  of  the  counties  in 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  15 

the  state  in  the   number   and   quahty  of  its  horses,  cattle  and 
sheep." 

The  population  of  Armstrong  county,  according  to  the 
census  of  1880,  was  47,641,  and  of  Indiana,  40,527.  The 
number  now  is  probably  about  60,000  and  50,000  respectively. 
Of  the  towns  within  our  borders,  Kittanning,  the  county  seat 
of  Armstrong,  and  Indiana,  of  Indiana,  have  each  about  4,000 
inhabitants;  Parker  City  has  about  2,500;  Freeport,  Leech- 
burg,  Apollo,Saltsburg  have  each  about  2,000  ;  while  Dayton, 
Elderton,  Brady's  Bend,  Worthington,  Rural  Valley,  Homer 
City,  8helocta,  Marion,  Cherry  Tree,  Plumville,  Covode, 
Greenville  are  smaller  villages. 

The  leading  occupation  of  the  inhabitants  of  this  district  is 
agriculture.  At  one  time  pine  and  hemlock  timber  was 
abundant  in  the  northern  part  of  both  counties,  and  "  lumber- 
ing "  was  extensively  carried  on,  as,  to  a  limited  extent  it  still 
is.  But  the  great  wealth  of  the  forests  is  gone.  Throughout 
the  larger  part  of  Armstrong  county  iron  ore  abounds,  and 
numerous  furnaces  were  at  one  time  in  operation.  The  largest 
of  these  was  at  Brady's  Bend,  where  was  also  a  rolling  mill, 
the  establishment  being  for  many  years  one  of  the  largest  in 
the  country.  Others  were  located  on  Redbank,  Pine,  Mahon- 
ing, Cowanshannock  and  Buffalo  creeks.  At  present  a  fur- 
nace is  in  operation  at  Kittanning  in  connection  with  a  rolling 
mill;  at  Leechburg  are  two  steel  works,  with  rolling  mills 
attached;  at  Apollo  are  two  similar  establishments,  and  at 
Freeport  a  mill  has  been  recently  started.  Rich  beds  of  coal 
underlie  the  region,  and  these  are  being  mined  at  various 
points.  Fire  clay  is  also  found  at  several  points,  and  is  being 
utilized.  Salt  was  also  produced  in  large  quantity.  On  this 
point  Judge  Neale  says:  "The  Kiskiminitis  Valley  half  a 
century  ago  produced  as  much  excitement  in  the  public  mind 
as  a  new  oil  field  would  do  at  the  present  day.  To  this 
industry  of  the  past  is  to  be  attributed  in  a  large  measure  the 
first  improvements  in  this  part  of  the  county  (or  counties),  and 
although  the  old  and  primitive  derricks  have  long  since  rotted 


16  HISTORY    OF    THE 


upon  their  foundations,  and  the  huge  iron  pans,  like  great 
vats,  have  rusted  away  and  fallen  into  pieces,  and  only  here 
and  there  remain  the  vestiges  of  that  former  industry,  yet  to- 
day, as  fifty  years  ago,  two  or  three  hundred  feet  from  where 
we  now  stand,  flow  onward  in  their  appointed  courses  these 
subterranean  streams  of  liquid  salt,  destined,  if  need  be,  for 
future  utiUzation." 

The  northwestern  part  of  our  territory  lies  within  the  great 
oil  field  that  has  made  this  region  famous  throughout  the 
world.  Parker  City  came  early  into  notice  in  connection  with 
this  modern  and  marvellous  industry,  and  about  1873,  ^"^  for 
a  time  afterwards,  was  one  of  the  chief  centres  of  operations 
in  oil.  Good  wells  were  also  obtained  at  Brady's  Bend.  The 
territory  thus  indicated  is  still  to  a  limited  degree  productive. 
Scarcely  less  wonderful  is  another  product  for  which  this 
region  has  become  famous — natural  gas — which  is  found  not 
only  at  the  two  points  named,  but  at  many  others  on  or  near 
the  Allegheny  and  the  Kiskiminitis  rivers.  Again,  the  langu- 
age of  Judge  Neale  is  laid  under  tribute:  "  But,  perhaps  that 
which  is  of  much  more  importance  than  the  presence  of  oil  is 
that  a  large  portion  of  our  county  is  suspended  over  an  im- 
mense laboratory  of  natural  gas,  a  spontaneous  agency 
generated  by  some  unknown  chemical  forces  of  nature,  at 
once  affording  heat  and  light  more  convenient  and  economical 
in  its  application  than  any  other  fuel,  natural  or  artificial,  ever 
adapted  to  the  manifold  purposes  of  life.  In  this  respect 
Leechburg  may  justly  claim  the  pre-emment  h  onor  of  having 
first  utilized  it  in  the  manufacture  of  iron,  and  of  introducing 
a  system  that  has  revolutionized  the  industrial  world."  From 
this  strange  material  the  towns  of  Kittanning,  Parker  Citv, 
Worthington,  Freeport,  Leechburg  and  Apollo  are  furnished 
with  light  and  heat,  and  in  these  places  it  is  used  as  fuel  for  all 
mills. 

At  Parker  City  is  a  manufactory  for  the  production  of  glass 
bottles  in  successful  operation  for  a  number  of  years.     On  the 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING. 


Allegheny  river,  a  few  miles  below  Kittanning,  is  an  estab- 
lishment for  the  production  of  plate  glass,  begun  in  1887,  and 
which,  when  completed,  will  be  one  of  the  most  extensive  of 
its  kind  in  this  country.  Freeport  has  a  ver}-  large  distillery, 
but,  as  Judge  INeale  thoughtfully  says:  '-Its  entire  product  is 
carefully  guarded  whilst  in  this  county,  and  finds  only  a  foreign 
market."  Other  enterprises  of  larger  or  smaller  moment 
might  be  mentioned,  but  this  brief  review  may  suffice  to  sug- 
gest the  varied  occupations  and  classes  of  people  found  within 
the  limits  of  this  Presbytery,  and  to  give  some  hint  of  the 
advantages  and  disadvantages  under  which  our  churches 
labor  in  seekmg  to  do  the  work  allotted  to  them  in  the  Provi- 
dence of  God  upon  this  field. 

Commercially  this  region  is  tributary  to  Pittsburgh,  about 
thirty  miles  distant  from  our  borders  at  the  nearest  point  of 
approach. 

Presbyterial  Boundaries  and  Connections. 

The  territory  covered  by  the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning  has 
been  included  by  turns,  in  whole  or  in  part,  within  the  bounds 
of  several  other  Presbyteries.  First  of  all  it  was  a  part  of 
Redstone,  that  mother  of  Presbyteries  west  of  the  Alieghenies, 
erected  by  the  Synod  of  New  York  and  Philadelphia,  May 
16,  1781,  and  formally  organized  at  Laurel  Hill  church,  now 
in  Fayette  county,  September  19th,  of  the  same  year.  This 
pioneer  Presbytery  was  not  described  by  bounds  by  the  body 
creating  it,  but  only  by  the  ministers  and  churches  originally 
included  in  it,  and  hence  it  reached  from  the  summit  of  the 
Alieghenies  to  the  setting  sun,  or,  at  least,  to  the  farthest 
western  border  of  civilization.  This  relationship  continued 
undisturbed  for  twenty  years. 

When  the  Presbytery  of  Erie  was  erected  by  the  Synod  of 
Virginia  in  session  at  Winchester,  October  2,  1801,  and  whose 
Hrst  meeting  was  held  at  Mount  Pleasant  in  Beaver  countv, 
April  13,  1802,  that  part  of  Armstrong   county  lying  west  of 

3 


18  HISTORY    OF    THE 


the  Allegheny  river  was  included  in  it.  This  relation  con- 
tinued nineteen  years,  when  it  became  a  part  of  the  Presbytery 
of  Allegheny,  whose  first  meeting  was  held  at  Butler  on  the 
first  Tuesday  of  April,  1820.  This  connection  continued  for 
fifty  years,  or  until  the  reconstruction  in  1870,  when  the 
Allegheny  river  ceased  to  be  a  boundary,  and  this  strip  of 
territory  became  a  part  of  the  Presbytery  as  now  constituted. 

That  part  of  this  Presbytery  east  of  the  Allegheny  con- 
tinued in  Redstone  until  by  the  Synod  of  Pittsburgh  in  October, 
1830,  the  Presbytery  of  I^lairsville  was  erected  with  the  "  Pitts- 
burgh and  Stoystown  turnpike"  as  its  southern  boundary,  and 
whose  first  meeting  was  held  at  Ebenezer,  presumably  in 
April  following.  In  this  connection  it  continued  twenty-six 
years,  or  until  the  Synod  of  Pittsburgh  erected  the  Presbytery 
of  Saltsburg,  October  21,  1856.  That  part  of  Armstrong 
county  lying  between  the  two  creeks,  Redbank  and  Mahoning, 
and  containing  only  a  single  church,  named  from  its  location, 
Middle  Creek,  Avas  attached  to  the  Presbytery  of  Clarion  from 
its  formation  by  the  Synod  of  Pittsburgh,  October  23,  184 1, 
until  the  reconstruction  in  1870,  when  it  became  a  part  of  this 
Presbytery.  It  is  also  to  be  remarked  that  the  church  of 
Worthington  from  its  organization  March  10,  1850,  until  its 
reception  into  this  Presbytery  was  in  connection  with  the 
Mahoning  Presbytery  of  the  Free  Presbyterian  Church,  It 
thus  appears  that  this  Presbyter}',  partially  or  as  a  whole,  has 
been  a  component  part  of  eight  different  Presbyteries. 

Synodicai.  Connections. 

The  synodical  connection  of  this  Presbytery  has  been 
nearly  as  varied  as  its  Presbyterial.  In  the  first  place  the 
original  Sxiiodof  New  York  and  Philadelphia  had  jurisdiction 
over  oin-  whole  lerritorA-;  then,  at  its  organization  in  1788,  the 
territory  become  )-)art  of  the  Synod  of  \'irginia:  and  finally  it 
was  imludt'cl  in  \\\v  liounds  of  the  Synod  of  Pillsliurgh,  the 
first  in  the  west,  formed  by  the  General  Asseniblv  in  May, 
J 802,  and  whose  Hrst   meeting  was  held    in    Pittsburgh  on  the 


PRESBYTERY    OE    KiTTANNING.  19 


29th  of  September  in  the  same  year.  When  the  Synod  of 
Allegheny  was  erected  in  May,  1854,  ^^^  ^^^^  meeting  being 
held  at  Allegheny  in  October  of  the  same  year,  that  part  of 
this  Presbytery,  as  now  bounded,  lying  west  of  the  Allegheny 
river,  was  included  within  its  limits.  At  the  reconstruction 
in  1870,  this  Presbytery  was  one  of  the  six  assigned  by  the 
General  Assembly  to  the  Synod  of  Erie.  Finally,  upon  the 
consolidation  of  Synods  in  1882,  it  became  a  part  of  the  Synod 
of  Pennsylvania.  Thus,  in  whole  or  in  part,  the  Presbytery 
has  had  six  different  synodical  connections,  or  including  that 
of  the  Worthington  congregation  in  the  Free  Presbyterian 
Church,  seven. 

Planting  and  Growth  of  Churches. 

Any  detailed  account  of  the  planting  of  Presbyterianism 
within  our  bounds  beyond  what  may  be  found  in  connection 
with  the  history  of  the  several  churches,  will  not  be  attempted. 
The  early  settlers  in  this  region  were  largely  of  the  Presby- 
terian faith,  and  the  churches  now  are  largely  composed  of 
their  descendents,  a  sturdy,  conservative  people,  trained  in  the 
faith  which  they  hold,  nourished  from  infancy  on  the  Bible  and 
the  Westminister  standards,  and  devotedly  attached  to  the 
Church  of  their  fathers.  While  there  are  churches  of  numer- 
ous other  denominations  of  Christians  within  the  bounds  of  this 
Presbytery,  no  other  in  the  number  of  its  churches  and  mem- 
bers, it  is  believed,  is  nearly  equal  to  that  which  this  history 
represents.  Few  rural  districts  are  more  solidly  Presbyterian 
than  this.  In  connection  with  the  early  settlements,  churches 
soon  began  to  appear,  but  in  most  cases  it  is  believed,  without 
any  formal  ceremony  of  organization  conducted  by  Presby- 
tery, as  the  earliest  Presbyterial  records  contain  no  account  of 
any  such  proceedings.  The  churches  seem  to  have  been 
recognized  or  enrolled  by  the  early  Presbyteries  just  as  they 
reported  themselves  or  appeared  at  the  meetings  to  make 
''  supplications  for  supplies."  For  many  years  churches  were 
few  in  number,  and  far   separated  from   each  other  as  well  as 


20  HISTORY    OF    THE 


weak  in  numbers  and  resources,  and  the  early  ministers,  in 
supplvinir  their  congregations  and  attending  ecclesiastical 
meetings,  often  had  long  and  tedious  journeys  to  make,  ii 
circumstance  that,  while  involving  hardship,  contributed,  no 
doubt,  to  make  them  the  hardy  and  heroic  men  that  they 
were. 

In  the  bounds  of  this  Presbytery,  previous  to  1800, 
there  were  two  churches.  Bethel  and  Ebenezer,  in  Indiana 
county,  about  ten  miles  apart,  each  dating  from  about  1790. 
There  were  also  before  the  same  date  two  in  Armstrong  county. 
The  records  of  the  Presbytery  of  Redstone  show  that  on 
October  15,  1799,  the  "congregations  of  Union  and  Fairfield 
(now  Slate  Lick)  in  Allegheny  county  (now  Armstrong)"  asked 
for  supplies,  and  at  the  same  meeting  of  Presbytery  presented 
a  call  to  Mr.  Andrew  Gwin,  a  licentiate  of  the  Presbytery, 
which  call  he  returned  to  Presbytery  on  December  2.5th  of  the 
same  year  in  order  to  accept  another.  Thus  there  were  be- 
fore the  close  of  the  last  century  four  established  congrega- 
tions in  the  territory  now  occupied  by  this  Presbytery,  two  in 
each  of  the  two  counties  composing  it.  Armstrong  county, 
however,  was  not  organized  until  March  12, 1800,  and  Indiana, 
March  30,  1806.  In  i8io  there  were  eight  churches;  in  1820, 
the  same  number;  in  1830,  thirteen;  in  1840,  nineteen;  in  1850, 
thirty;  in  i860,  fort3'-two;  in  1870,  forty-five  ;  in  1880, 
forty-nine;  and  at  the  present  date,  1888,  fifty.  Including  three 
churches  that  have  been  disorganized,  the  whole  number  has 
been  fifty-three.  The  membership  of  the  fift}-  existing 
churches  is  6,770,  an  average  of  lye,  church,  and  of  157^ 
members  to  each  township  in  the  Presbytery.  Including  four 
churches  now  in  Blairsville  Presbytery  the  whole  number  of 
churches  on  the  roll  of  this  Presbytery  or  within  its  bounds 
has  been  fifty-seven. 

(Jr(janization  of  Prksbytery. 

In  view  of  the  extent  of  territory  included  in  the  Presby- 
tery of  Blairsville  and  the  necessarv  labor  involved  in  attending 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  21 

meetings  of  the  body  and  performing  other  Presbyterial  work, 
it  began  to  be  felt  as  churches  and  ministers  increased  in  num- 
bers, that  convenience  would  be  promoted  and  the  cause  of 
religion  better  subserved  by  dividing  the  Presbytery.  Accord- 
ingl}^  in  Presbytery  at  Saltsburg,  October  8,  1856,  the 
following  action  was  taken,  viz: 

Resolved^  That  the  Synod  of  Pittsburgh  be  requested  to  detach 
from  this  Presbytery  the  ministers  and  churches  north  of  a  line 
commencing  on  the  Allegheny  river,  at  the  Penn  township  line; 
along  said  line  to  the  Warren  grade;  thence  to  the  Kiskiminitis 
river;  along  said  river  to  the  Conemaugh,  to  the  mouth  of  Black- 
lick,  and  up  that  creek  to  the  Blairsville  and  HoUidaysburg  turnpike 
road,  and  thence  eastward  along  said  road  to  the  eastern  boundary 
of  the  Synod;  and  that  the  ministers  and  churches  so  detached  be 
erected  into  a  Presbytery  to  be  called  the  Presbytery  of 
\^Saltsburg~\;  thai  said  Presbytery  be  directed  to  hold  their  first 
meeting  at  Indiana  on  the  first  Tuesday  of  January,  1857,  at  2 
o'clock,  P.  M. 

The  name  of  the  Presbytery,  as  above,  was  left  blank,  as 
the  records  show  when  the  request  for  division  was  resolved 
upon  and  was  supplied  by  the  Synod. 

The  following  extracts  from  the  records  of  the  Synod  are 
in  place: 

Wednesday  afternoon. — The  Committee  on  Bills  and  Overtures 
reported  a  paper  containing  a  request  of  the  Presbyter)'^  of  Blairs- 
ville for  division,  which  was  taken  up. 

Thursday  morning. — The  new  Presbytery  set  off  from  the 
Presbytery  of  Blairsville  was  called  the  Presbytery  ot  Saltsburg^ 
and  its  first  meeting  was  appointed  at  the  time  and  place  designated 
in  their  request. 

Rev.  Joseph  Painter  was  directed  to  preach  and  constitute  the 
Presbytery,  Mr.  Colledge  being  his  alternate. 

The  Presbytery  as  thus  defined  included  in  its  bounds 
parts  of  three  counties;  the  northwestern  part  of  Westmore- 
land, about  one-tenth ;  the  eastern  part  of  Armstrong,  about 
two-thirds,  and  the  northern  part  of  Indiana,  about  nine-tenths. 


22  HISTORY    OF    THE 


Its  first  meeting  was  held,  according  to  appointment,  at 
Indiana,  January  6,  1857,  Rev,  Joseph  Painter  preaching  a 
sermon  on  "The  Ministry"  from  Ephesians  4:12,  Rev. 
Samuel  M.  McClung  being  chosen  as  its  first  Moderator  and 
Rev.  Wm.  W.  Woodend  as  its  Stated  Clerk. 

At  the  time  of  its  organization  the  Presbytery  of  Saltsburg 
contained  seventeen  ministers,  and  had  under  its  care  thirty- 
three  churches. 

After  the  reunion  of  the  two  branches  of  the  Presbyterian 
Church,  consummated  amid  general  rejoicing  in  the  city  of 
Pittsburgh  by  a  joint  convention  of  the  two  Assemblies  held 
Friday,  November  12,  1869,  great  changes  in  ecclesiastical 
boundaries  were  made.  In  accordance  with  action  taken  by 
the  first  reunited  Assembl)'^  which  met  in  Philadelphia  the  third 
Thursday  of  May,  1870,  Synodical  and  Presbyterial  bound- 
aries were  made  to  correspond,  as  far  as  practicable,  with 
state  and  count}'  lines. 

The  new  Synod  of  Erie,  consisting  of  "  the  Presbyteries 
and  parts  of  Presbyteries  in  the  northwest  counties  of  Penn- 
sylvania, west  of  the  Synod  of  Harrisburg,  and  bounded  south 
by  the  counties  of  Cambria  and  Westmoreland,  and  the  Alle- 
gheny and  the  Ohio  rivers  to  the  Slate  Hne,  except  that  part 
of  Indiana  county  lying  east  and  south  of  .the  Black  Lick 
Creek,"  met  at  Erie,  July  7,  1870. 

Accordingly  in  reconstructing  the  Presbyteries  under  its 
care  in  accordance  with  the  general  principles  prescribed  by 
the  General  Assembly,  "  this  Synod  defined  the  Presbytery  of 
Kittanning  to  consist  of  the  ministers  and  churches  in  the 
county  of  Armstrong  and  so  much  of  Indiana  county  as  lies 
north  and  west  of  Black  Lick  creek,  and  this  Presbytery  shall 
be  the  legal  successor  of  the  Presbytery  of  Saltsburg." 

Rev.  Alexander  Donaldson,  D.  D.,  was  appointed  con- 
vener, and  twelve  o'clock  M.  was  fixed  as  the  time,  and  Park 
church,  Erie,  Pa.,  as  the  place  for  the  organization. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  23 

At  the  time  and  place  mentioned  the  Presbytery  of  Kit- 
tanning  was  formally  organized.  Rev.  A,  Donaldson,  D.  D., 
Moderator,  at  the  time,  of  the  Presbytery  of  Saltsburg,  was 
elected  Moderator,  and  Rev.  G.  W.  Mechlin,  D.  D.,  Stated 
Clerk,  at  the  time,  of  the  Presbytery  of  Saltsburg,  was  elected 
Stated  Clerk. 

At  the  time  of  organization  the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning 
had  under  its  care  twenty-four  ministers  and  forty-four 
churches.  By  the  transformation  of  the  Presbytery  from 
Saltsburg  into  Kittanning  there  was  a  loss  of  two  ministers 
and  three  churches.  On  the  other  hand  there  was  a  gain  of 
three  ministers  and  nine  churches,  a  net  gain  of  one  minister 
and  six  churches. 

By  way  of  accounting  for  the  deviation  from  the  boundary 
line  of  Indiana  county  in  the  formation  of  this  Presbytery  at 
the  reconstruction,  it  may  be  remarked  that  that  portion  of  the 
county  lying  south  and  east  of  Black  Lick  creek  contained  the 
town  from  which  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville  was  named, 
and  as  the  brethren  of  that  Presbytery  expressed  great  at- 
tachment to  their  name  as  well  as  to  the  portion  of  territory 
whence  the  name  was  derived.  Synod  was  prevailed  upon  to 
make  an  exception  to  general  rules  in  this  case  and  to  accede 
to  their  wishes. 

By  way  of  accounting  for  the  decision  of  Synod  in  the 
matter  of  this  boundary.  Dr.  Donaldson,  in  his  history  of 
churches  read  in  1873  O"  ^^e  occasion  of  celebrating  the 
thirty-fifth  anniversary  of  his  own  pastorate,  jocosely  speaks 
of  "  the  preponderating  weight  of  a  mighty  ///// — Rev. 
Geo.  Hill,  D.  D., — thrown  into  the  scales,"  Dr.  Hill  being 
both  then  and  now  pastor  of  the  church  in  Blairsville. 

The  churches  of  the  Presbytery,  for  reasons  hinted  at  in 
the  first  section  of  this  history,  are  more  numerous  toward  the 
southern  and  western  borders.  Precisely  half  of  the  whole 
number  are  found  in  each  of  the  two  counties  comprised 
within  its  limits. 


24 


HISTORY    OF    THE 


ROLL  OF  MINISTERS. 


In  the  last  column  a  star  (*)  denotes  that  the  date  given  is 
that  of  death. 

ORIGINAL  MEMBERS  OF    PRESBYTERY    OF    SALTSBURG.— 17. 


NAMES. 


PATE   OK 
ORDI.VATIO.-x. 


DATE   OF 
RKCEPTION 


DATE  OV    DIS- 
Ml.>i.SAL   OK    DKATIl. 


Joseph  Painter,  D.  D 

John  H.  Kirkpatrick 

William  Colledgfe 

Samuel  M.  McClung' 

Alexander  Donaldson,  D.D. 

I-evi  M.  Graves 

John   Caruthers 

John  Stark 

William  W   Woodend 

OeorfTc  Morton 

Andrew   Mclhvain 

Thomas  S.  Lcason 

tDavid  Mills 

John  Moore 

Samuel  P.  Bollman 

Franklin  Orr 

William  F.  Morgan 


June 
Mav, 
June, 
June 
January 
March 
February 
June, 


23,  1825 

1827 

1832 

18a.-) 

20,  l»:i9 

1840 

1«40 

17,  1844 

14,  l(-4e 

11,  184(i 

1,  1848 

1848 


June, 
October, 
November 
January 


1H47 

1851 

3,  1853 

31,  1856 


an nary 
anuary 
:mu;iry 
anuary 
anuary 
anuary 
anuarv 
anuary 
anuary 
anuarv 
anuary 
anuary 
anuiiry 
anuary 
anuarv 
anuarv 
anuarv 


6,  1857 
6,  1857 
e,  1857 
6,  1857 
6,  1857 
6,  18.17 
ti,  1857 
6,  1867 
f),  1-57 
ti,  1857 
6,  1857 
6,  1857 
b,  1857 
6,  1857 
6.  1857 
6,  1857 
e,  1857 


♦June  1,  1873 

♦Januarv  20,  1877 
«X<)VL-ml>er  14,  18(i7 
June  26,  IhbO 

♦Januarv  i|  1881 

♦.November  'Zi,  ISsO 
♦Julv  12,  1869 

♦November  22,  1886 
April  24,  1860 

April  8,  1873 

June  27,  1860 

+Octol)er       22,  1858 


April 
December 


14,  1857 
17,  1872 


♦April 


25,  1875 


tDeposcd. 


ADDITION. \L    MEMBERS.— 28. 


NAMES. 


DATE  OK 
ORDINATIOX. 


(jeo.  Washing-Ion  Mechlin. 

Thomas  Robinson  Elder 

Robert  McMillan 

William  G.  Shaad 

John  Rice 

Elisha  D.Barrett 

John  P.  Kennedy 

Daniel  W.  Townsend 

James  E.  Caruthers 

Matthias  M.  Shirley 

David  D.  Christy 

Georee  M.  Spargrrove 

David  Johnston  Irwin 

J.  Melton  Jones 

James  Harvey  Marshall 

Thomas  Davis  Ewing 

H.  K.  Hennifrh 

James  E.  T^apsley 

John  Orr 

James  D.  Moorhead 

Samuel  M.  McClung 

Georg^e  K.  Scott 

J.  Logan  Sample 

HezcRjah  Mag^ill 

Alex.  Scott  Foster 

Carl  Moore 

James  A.  Ewing 

J.   D.  Walkinshaw- 


February 

April 

August 

September 

October 

July 

October 

May 

June 

July 

August 

June 

June 

Sepiemlier 

M:iv 

October 

June 

December 

November 

April 

April 

May 

April 

Ap.il 

November 

June 


20,  1857 
16,  1857 
25,  1857 

1,  1857 
7,1857 

1829 

14,  iaT8 
6,  1858 

12,  1859 
30,  1859 
3.  1860 

15,  1860 
19,  1861 
25,1857 

19,  1862 
10,  1864 

1845 
29,  1864 
28,1864 

2,  1865 
18:K 

20,  18.59 
1864 

9,  1867 
24, 1867 
1.1,  1842 
2;},  1858 
20,  1860 


DATE   OF 
RECEPTION. 


February 
April 
August 
September 
October 
April 
July 
October 
.May 
June 
July 
April 
June 
April 
September 
May 
June 
June 

December 
November 
Decembtr 
April 
April 
May 
April 
April 
May 
Decern   er 


30,  1857 
Iti,  1857 
25,1857 
1,1857 
7,  1857 
7,1858 
14,1858 
6,  1858 

12,  1859 
30,  1859 

3,  1860 
10,  1861 
19,  1861 
15,  1862 
19,  1862 
10,  1864 
28,  1864 
2^,  1864 
28,  1864 

2,  1865 
25,  1866 

23,  1867 
•^,  1867 

9,  I8»i7 

24,  1867 

13,  1869 
1,  1869 

28,  1869 


DATE  OF    DIS- 
MISSAL  OK    1>EATH. 


♦September 

♦August 

April 

Octolxr 

June 

July 

.September 

October 

October 

Jun;; 

November 


1857 
1864 
1862 
1864 
1861 
1870 
1867 
1870 
1864 
1864 
18c5 


Jul> 

October 

August 

June 

April 


1,  1874 
4,  1865 
5,1880 
26.  1866 
11,  1865 


July 

♦August 

October 

August 

December 

April 


9,  1870 

6,1869 

12.  1871 

r>,  1880 

.30,1884 

14,  18<:9 


April 
April 


2,  1872 
12,  1870 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING. 


MEMBERS    OF    THE    PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING    AT    ITS 
ORGANIZATION,  JULY  9,  1870.-24. 


NAMES. 


Joseph  Painter,  D   D 

John  H.  Kirkpatrick 

Alex.  Donaldson,  D.  D.... 

Levi  M.  Graves 

John   Caruthers 

Ciirl  Moore 

Wm.  W.  Woodend,  D.  D 

Andrew  McElwain 

Samuel  P.  Bellman 

Franklin  Orr 

Wm.  F.  Morg-an 

Geo.  W.  Mechlin,  D.  D... 

J.  Molton  Jones 

Georg^e  K.  Scott 

James  E.  Caruthers 

David  Johnston  Irwin 

Samuel  H.  Holliday 

J.  I.ogan  Sample 

T.  Davis  Ewing 

John  Orr 

He/.ekiah  Magill 

James  A.  Ewing 

Alex.  Scro^gs  Thcmiison 
John  Junkin  Francis 


DATE   OF 
ORDINATION. 


November 

June 

May 

June 

April 

January 

February 

October, 

Novenibtr 

Januurj- 

F"ebruurv 

June 

April 

May 

June 

June 

April 

Mav 

December 

May 

November 

November 

October 


2.S,  1895 
1827 

•:0,  1839 
1840 
1840 

15,  184> 
14,  1846 

1,  1848 

1851 

3,  185.3 

31.  1856 
20,  1857 
25,  1857 

1859 
12,  1859 
19,  1861 

16,  1863 
1864 

10,  1864 
28,  1864 
9,  1867 
23,  1858 
20,1867 

32,  1869 


DATE   OF 
RECEPTION. 


Ju 
Ju 
Ju 
Ju 

Ju 
Ju 

J" 

Ju 
Ju 
iu 
Ju 
Ju 
Ju 
Ju 
Ju 

J" 

Ju 
Ju 
Ju 

J" 

Ju 
Ju 
Ju 
July 


1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 
1870 


DATE   OF    DIS- 
MISSAL  OR   DEATH. 


*June 
*Januarv 


*January  1, 

♦November  27, 


1873 

1877 


1881 
1880 


*November  22, 
April  8, 

tDeccinber    17, 


ISRti 
187S 
1872 


*April 


25,  1875 


July 

October 

October 


1874 
1871 

1870 


May  11, 

Auor-us-t  ri, 

Ano-ust  5, 


1h7r. 
18R0 
1880 


December  30, 

April  2. 

*Dcci.n^b-r  4, 

October  13, 


18^! 
1872 
1878 
1870 


tName  dropped. 


26 


HISTORY    OF    THE 


ADDITIONAL  MEMBERS 52. 


NAMES. 


Samuel  Ramsay 

Samuel  A.  Hug-hes 

William  M.  Kain 

Josias  H.  Yoiinsr 

David  Harvey  Sloan 

B.  Shields  Sloan 

Andrew  Virtue 

Abraham  T.  Bell 

B.  PVank  Boyle 

K.  K.  Thompson 

David  Hall,  D.  D 

A.  Braincrd  Marshall 

Perrin   Baker 

Dilwynn  M.  Hazlett 

Jeremiah  X.  Diainent 

John  Stockton  Axtcll 

Jacob  J.  Hawk 

William  J.  Wilson 

J.  Horner  Kerr 

James  Caldwell 

William  F.  Gibson 

Jacob  I^.  Thompson 

lAciirgus  Mechlin 

Charles  C.  B.  Duncan 

John   N.  Macj»^<)ni!J;le 

J  ohn  Gourley 

Alex.  II.  Donaldson 

J.  C.  Rhea  Ewing^ 

J.  W.  Ewing 

Dilwynn  M.  Hazlett 

James  E.   Levda 

Samuel  W.  Miller,  D.  D... 

Samuel  E.  Elliott 

Samuel  G.  Wilson 

.\uslin  II.  Jolly 

Henry  E.  Mavers 

Wm.  H.  Kohinson 

Houston  W.  Lovvry 

J;uiies  M.  Kelly 

Adolphus  C.  (iood 

John  S.  Helm 

Julius  Spencer 

lohn  C.  McCracken 

Thomas  M.  Thomjison 

Addison  S.  Elliott 

Joseph  H.  Bausnian 

Josiah  McPherrin 

Samuel  J.  Glass 

J.  Quincv  A.  Fullerton 

Wm.  F.  Gibson 

A.  lackson  Gresjij 

Clark  B.  Gillette 

Robert  D.  Wilson 

Wm.  W.  Woodend,  D.  D. 

J.  Goodwin   Toiizeau 

Joseph  P.  Calhoun 

Will.  H.  Robinson 

John    C.  Ambrose 

John  C.  Mechlin  

.\ewton  B.  Kellv 

Jonathan  W.  Mifler 

Dewitt   M.  Benhain 

Robert  H.   Fulton 

Harvey  Shaw 


DATE   or 
OBDINATION. 


June 
February 
February 


17,  1862 

18,  1862 
4,1860 

1863 


J>iiy 

2,  1872 

April 

11,1866 

January 
December 

15,  1852 

31,  1872 

June 

25,  1873 

June 

25,  1873 

November 

5,  1856 

October 

14,  1874 

May 

11,  1875 

May 

11,  1875 

.May 

1861 

July 

28,  1874 

June 

4,  1873 

June 

14,  1876 

Mav 

1,  1873 

June 

l.-i,  IHTio 

)une 

28,  1877 

January 

20,  1874 

June 

29.  1877 

April 

1862 

Mav 

11,  1875 

lune 

6,  1878 

July 

2,  1879 

September 

4,  1879 

May 

n,  1875 

September 

7,  1877 

April 

26,  1865 

November 

21,  1876 

July 

1,  1881) 

Auifust 

5,1880 

October 

15,  1874 

June 

21,1881 

July 

12,  1H81 

June 

28.  1882 

June 

28,  1882 

June 

28.  1882 

April 

19,  186:^ 

Mav 

6,  1879 

May 

1.5,  1878 

June 

26,  1883 

April 

26,  188:^ 

Xoveiuber 

7,  1865 

June 

11,  1878 

June 

4,  1873 

June 

28,  1887 

April 

2<t,  18«5 

October 

22,  1873 

June 

9,  1885 

January 

14,  1846 

Mav 

11,  1S86 

•April 

27,  1887 

June 

21,  1881 

June 

28,  1887 

June 

28,  1887 

July 

29,  1884 

October 

28,  1884 

Octolicr 

12,  1887 

June 

7,  1877 

DATE   OF 
K  KCEPTION. 


October 
April 
April 
October 
July 
JulV 
October 
December 
June 
June 
April 
October 
May 
Mav 
June 
June 
lune 
June 
June 
June 
June 
lanuary 
June 

December 
December 
June 
July 
Septenibir 

Jxiy 

October 

April 

June 

July 

July 

Aufi^^iist 

April 
1   lune 

julv 
'  Jime 
i  June 
'    lune 
:  October 
i   October 
I  January 
,  June 

January 

1  June 

December 

December 

April 
[   April 

O.lober 

April 

May 

April 

April 

June 

June 

Oclober 

October 
I  Ocrolur 
I   December 
I  April 


5,  1870 
4,  1871 
4,  1871 

12,  1871 
2,  1872 
2,  1872 

1,  1872 
31,  1872 
25,  1873 

25,  1873 

7,  1874 
14,  1874 
11,  1875 

11,  1875 
2:i,  1875 

13,  1876 

13,  1876 

14,  1876 
29,  1876 

28,  1877 
28,1877 

20,  1874 

29,  1877 
19,  1877 
19,  1877 

6,  1878 

2,  1879 

4,  1879 

2,  1879 

8,  1879 
27,1880 

30,  1880 
1.  1880 

I,  1880 

5,  1880 

26,  1881 

21,  1881 

12,  1881 
28,  1882 
28,  1882 
28,  1882 
10,  1882 

10,  1882 

3,  1883 

26,  1883 
3.  1884 

17,  1884 
30,  1884 
:«),  1884 

28,  1885 

29,  1885 

6,  1885 

9,  1885 
14,  1886 

11,  1886 

27,  1887 
26,  1887 

28,  1887 
28,  1887 

II,  1887 

11,  1887 

12,  1887 
21,  1887 
11,  1888 


DATE   OF   DIS- 
MISSAL OK    DKATIl. 


♦September  18,  1872 


\j)tH  9,  1873 

tDecember    20,  1877 


April 


4,  18K2 


Oclober 
April 


19,  1882 
23,  1878 


April 

January 

October 

October 

April 

July 

December 

April 


6,  1875 
29,  IHKl 
11,  1K75 
11,  1K82 
23,  IHTK 

9,  187K 
17,  1879 
13,  lK8«i 


January 
October 


2,  18Ki 
18,  1876 


July 

Auarust 

October 

April 

September 

tDecember    22,  1880 

April  27,  1880 

April  •£•,,  1884 


10,  187X 
5,  18W) 
1.5,  18S3 

27,  m*^! 

4.  1879 


April 

August 

April 


28.  1885 
5,  1880 
13,  1K8»; 


June 
June 


22,  1881 
9,  1885 


June 
April 
October 


28,  1882 
24,1883 
11,  1887 


April 
October 
April 
October 


28,  1885 

11,  1887 
28,  1885 

12,  18S(i 


December 

1."), 

1886 

December 

14, 

)88<i 

♦November 

22 

1886 

April 

26, 

1887 

June 

29 

1887 

tName  dropped. 

Whole  number  of  names  on  the  roll,  not  includino-  dupli- 
cates, 109. 


PRESHYTERY    OF    KITTANNING. 


27 


OFFICERS   OF    PRESBYTERY. 


I.     Moderators. 

S.  M.  McClung, 

?)  months  from  January 

6, 

1857. 

John  Caruthers, 

6  months  trom  April 

14, 

1857. 

A.  Donaldson, 

6  months  from  October 

6, 

1857. 

George  Morton, 

6  months  from  April 

6, 

1858. 

Franklin  Orr, 

6  months  from  October 

5, 

1858. 

Levi  M.  Graves, 

6  months  from   April 

12, 

1859. 

T.  S.  Leason, 

6  months  from  October 

4, 

1859. 

G.  W.  Mechlin, 

6  months  from  April 

34, 

1860. 

Robt.  McMillan, 

G  months  from  October 

2, 

1860. 

John  P.  Kennedy, 

6  months  from  April 

9. 

1861. 

Wm.  F.  Morgan, 

6  months  from  October 

1, 

1861. 

Andrew  McEiwain, 

G  moiiths  from  April 

15, 

1863. 

D.  W.  Townsend, 

6  months  from  October 

7, 

1863. 

Jas.  E.  Caruthers, 

6  months  from  April 

14, 

1863. 

D.  J.  Irwin, 

G  months  from  October 

6, 

1863. 

Geo.  M.  Spargrove, 

G  months  from  April 

13, 

1864. 

J.  Molton  Jones, 

6  months  from  October 

4, 

1864 

S.  P.  BoUman, 

G  months  from  April 

11. 

1865. 

John  Orr, 

G  moiiLhs  trom  October 

'S, 

1865. 

T.  D.  Ewing, 

G  months  from  April 

24, 

1866. 

John  Stark, 

G  monihs  from  September 

35, 

, 1866. 

J.  D.  Moorhead, 

6  months  from  April 

33, 

1867. 

Geo.  K.  Scott, 

6  months  from  October 

16, 

1867. 

J.  Logan  Sample, 

6  months  from  April 

35, 

1868. 

"w.  W.  Woodend, 

6  months  from  October 

6, 

1868. 

H.  Magill, 

G  months  from   April* 

13, 

1869. 

John  Caruthers, 

G  monihs  from  October 

13, 

1869. 

A.  Donaldson, 

o  months  from  April 

12, 

1870. 

A.  Donaldson, 

8  months  from  July 

9, 

1870. 

W.  W.  Woodend, 

6  months  from  October 

4, 

,  1870. 

S.  H.  HoUiday, 

G  months  from  April 

4, 

1871. 

Geo.  K.  Scott, 

G  months  from  October 

11. 

1871. 

Franklin  Orr, 

6  months  from  April 

3, 

1873. 

A.  Donaldson, 

G  months  from  October 

1, 

1872. 

D.J.  Irwin, 

G  months  from  April 

18, 

1873. 

HISTORY    OF    THE 


Samuel  A.  Hughes 

,         6  months  from 

October 

7, 

1873. 

Geo.  W.  Mechlin, 

6  months  from 

April 

7. 

1874. 

Franklin  Orr, 

6  months  from 

October 

13. 

1874. 

T.  D.  Ewing, 

6  months  from 

April 

«, 

1875. 

A.  S.  Thompson, 

a  months  from 

October 

6. 

1875. 

D.  H.  Sloan. 

6  months  from 

April 

4, 

1876. 

B.  F.  IJo_yle, 

6  months  from 

October 

18. 

1876. 

A.  T.  Bell, 

6  months  from 

April 

3, 

1877. 

John  J.  Francis, 

6  months  from 

October 

n, 

1877. 

A.  Donaldson, 

(5  months  from 

April 

23. 

1878. 

J.  N.  McGonigle, 

(5  months  from 

October 

9. 

1878. 

H.  Magill, 

(i  months  from 

April 

22, 

187!). 

B.  S.  Sloan, 

6  months  from 

October 

8, 

1879. 

J.  Logan  Sample, 

G  months  from 

April 

27, 

1880. 

Wm.  F.  Gibson, 

ti  months  from 

October 

7, 

1880. 

Samuel  VV.  Miller, 

6  months  from 

April 

26, 

1881. 

Perrin  Baker, 

6  months  from 

October 

18, 

1881. 

David  Hall, 

6  months  from 

April 

25, 

1882. 

Henrj  L.  Mayers, 

6  months  from 

October 

10, 

1882. 

D.  J.  Irwin, 

6  months  from 

April 

24, 

1883. 

A.  H.  Jolly, 

6  months  from 

October 

15, 

1883. 

H.  W.  Lowrv, 

6  months  from 

April 

22, 

1884. 

J.  Horner  Kerr, 

6  months  from 

October 

8, 

1884. 

T.  M.  Thompson, 

6  months  from 

April 

28, 

1885. 

Lycurgus  Mechlin. 

6  months  from 

October 

.  0. 

1885. 

John  C.  McCracken,        (j  months  from 

April 

13, 

1886. 

Julius  Spencer 

(5  months  trom 

October 

12, 

1886. 

J.  Q.  A.  Fullerton, 

()  months  from 

April 

26. 

1887. 

James  M.  Kelly, 

6  months  from 

October 

11, 

1887. 

II.     Stated  Clerks. 

Win.  W.  VVoodend, 

from  January    6,  1857,  to  Oc 

:tober 

4,  1865. 

Daniel  W.  Townsend, 

from  October    4,  1 

865,  to  June- 

26,  1867. 

Geo.  W.  Mechlin, 

trom  June        26,  1867,  to  October 

3,  1872. 

John  Jimkin  Francis, 

from  October    ;j,  1872,  to  Oc 

:tober 

Ki  1879. 

David  Harvey  .Sloan, 

from  October  Vi,  1879. 

HI.     Fkrm.vxent  Ci-erk.s. 
T.  Davis  Ewing.  from  April        3,  1877,  to  April  27,  1880. 


John  Gourley, 
A.  T.  Bell, 


Franklin  (Jrr, 

John  Orr, 

Wm.  F.  Morgan, 

H.  Magill, 

John  C.  McCracken. 


from  April      27,  1880.  to  (October     15.  1883. 
from  October  15,  1883. 

IV.        rRE.V.SlRERS. 

iVom  January  6,  1857,  to  October  4,  1S65. 

from  October  4,  1865,  to  October  4.  1870. 

from  October  4.  1870,  to  April  6,  1885. 

from  April  6,  1875,  to  October  8,  1884. 

from  October  8. 1884. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING. 


-29 


ROLL  OF  CHURCHES. 


The  following  roll  includes  the  names  of  all  churches  lA 
any  time  belonging  to  the  Presbyter}'  of  Saltsburg  and  its 
successor,  the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning.  Those  marked 
thus,  (*)  have  been  disorganized,  and  those  marked  (f)  have 
been  transferred  to  the  Presbyterj'^  of  Blairsville.  The 
churches  are  arranged  in  the  order  of  their  organization. 
In  the  case  of  a  few  of  the  older  churches  no  definite  date  of 
organization  has  been  ascertained,  and  in  all  probability  no 
formal  organization  ever  took  place.  In  most  or  all  these 
cases  there  is  evidence  that  congregations  were  recognized  as 
early  at  least  as  the  year  indicated.  These  uncertain  dates 
are  indicated  thus  (?): 


Name  of  Church.                                           When  Ors^ani 

ized. 

Bethel 

1790 

Ebenezer  

1790 

f  Plum  Creek,  Westmoreland  Co.,., 

1791 

State   Lick 

1799: 

Union 

1799: 

Harmony 

1806  i 

Indiana 

1S07 

Gilgal  

1807 

Glade  Run 

1808i 

*Plum  Creek,  Armstrong  Co 

1814; 

Parker  City 

31, 

1819 

Kittanning,  1st August 

1822 

Saltsburg August 

1, 

1824 

Apollo 

1824: 

Crooked  Creek 

1825 

Elder's  .Ridge August 

30, 

,  1830 

Washington..        

3 

1831 

Freeport July 

,  1833 

By  What  Presbytery. 

.'' Redstone. 

.'' Redstone. 

.'' Redstone. 

.' Redstone. 

? Redstone. 

? Redstone. 

.' Redstone. 

? Redstone. 

.'' Redstone. 

? Redstone. 

.'' Allegheny. 

Redstone. 

Redstone. 

.' Redstone. 

? Redstone. 

Redstone. 

Blairsville. 

Allegheny . 


m 


HISTORY    Of    Ti(E 


Niime  of  Churih.  When  Orj; 

R ural  Val ley August 

Cherry   Tree May 

Currie's  Run July 

Boiling  Spring November 

Concord April 

f  Parnassus May 

Appleby  Manor ..November 

Middle  Creek October 

Cherry    Run December 

Leechburg April 

Brady's  Bend A pril 

*Pine   Grove. November 

West  Glade    Run December 

East    Union April 

fPine  Run February 

Rayne November 

*S trongstown  November 

Worthington March 

Mechanicsbvirg May 

Centre September 

Clinton June 

West  Lebanon March 

Smicksburg June 

Elderton August 

Mount  Pleasant September 

Clarksburg March 

Jacksonville June 

Bethesda December 

Marion .June 

Mahoning December 

Plumville June 

f  Black  Lick October 

Rockbridge January 

Homer July 

Srader's    Grove May 

Atwood September 

Midway September 

Tunnelton August 

Kittanning,  2d December 


iinized.  Bv  What  Presbytery. 

1,  1835   Blairsvllle 

29,  1838  Blairsville 

7,  1838  Blairsville 

2,  1839  Blairsville. 

2,  1840  Blairsville. 

8,  1842  Blairsville. 

20,  1842  Blairsville 

9,  1843  Clarion. 

5,  1843  Blairsville 

24,  1844  Blairsville 

8,  1845  Allegheny 

12,  1845  Blairsville. 

27,  1845  Allegheny. 

29,  1846  Blairsville 

3.  1847  Blairsville 

19,  1849  Blairsville. 

19,  1849  Blairsville. 

10,1850  Mahoning,  (Free  P.  C) 
12,  1851   Blairsville. 

3,  1851  Blairsville. 

9,  1852  Allegheny. 

10,  1853  Blairsville. 

9,  1854  Blairsville. 

18,  1854 Blairsville 

8,  1854  Blairsville. 

25,  1857  Saltsburg. 

19,  1857  Saltsburg. 

6,  1857  Saltsburg. 

15,  1860  Saltsburg. 

8,  1860  Saltsburg. 

8,  1864  Saltsburg 

31,  1867   Blairsville 

27,  1869   Saltsburg 

21,  1870  Kittanning 

1,1871   Kittanning. 

18,  1874  Kittanning 

4,  1875  Kittanning 

9,  1878  Kittanning 

31,  1884  Kittanning 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING. 


m 


COMMISSIONERS  TO  GENERAL  ASSEMBLY. 


1857. 

Minister, 

1858. 

Minister, 

1859. 

Minister, 

1860. 

Minister, 

1861. 

Minister, 

1863. 

Minister, 

1863. 

Minister, 

1864. 

Minister, 

Minister, 

1865. 

Minister, 

1866. 

Minister, 

1867. 

Minister, 

Minister, 

1868. 

Minister, 

1869. 

Minister, 

Minister, 

1870. 

Minister, 

1871. 

Minister, 

Minister, 

1872. 

Minister, 

Minister, 

1873. 

Minister, 

Minister, 

1874. 

Minister, 

Minister, 

1875. 

Minister, 

Minister, 

1876. 

Minister, 

Minister, 

1877. 

}vlinister, 

Minister, 

1878. 

Minister, 

Minister, 

1879. 

Minister, 

Minister, 

S.  M    McClung;  Elder,  Alexander  Gordon. 

Wm.  W,  Woodend:   filder,  Jas.  E.  Carutlners. 

Alex.  Donaldson;  Eider,  Hamlet  Totten. 

Wm.  W.  Woodend;  Elder,  Joseph  Henderson. 

Alex.  Donaldson;  Elder,  R.  A.  Hamilton. 

Wm.  F.  Morgan  ;  Elder,  Samuel  G.  Miller. 

George  W.  Mechlin;  Elder,  James  McKee. 

Andrew  McElwain;  Elder,  J.  Gourley. 

Robert  McMillan;  Elder,  W.  C.  Bovard. 

John  Stark;  Elder,  Robert  C.  Martin. 

John  Caruthers;  Elder,  John  Christy. 

D.  W.  Townsend;  Elder,  Isaac  Rhea. 

D.  J.  Irwin  ;  Elder.  J.  W.  Huston. 

J.  P.  Kennedy;  Elder,  Benjamin  Irwin. 

S.  P.  Bellman;  Elder,  Win.  McElwain. 

T.  Davis  Ewing  :  Elder,  Jas.  E.  Brown. 

Jas.  E.  Caruthers;  Elder,  R.  McChesney,  M.  D. 

John  Orr;  Elder,  R.  M.  Gibson 

Alex.  S.Thompson;  Elder,  A.  W.  Wilson. 

Franklin  Orr;  Elder,  Jas.   E.  Brown. 

H.  Magill;  Elder,  John  Sutton. 

John  J.  PYancis;  Elder,  Jas.  Elder. 

W.  W.  Woodend;  Elder,  R.  L.  McCurdy,  M.  D 

Wm.  F.  Morgan;  Elder,  W.  C.  Bovard. 

Alex.  Donaldson;  Elder,  Jas.  S.  Quigley. 

D.  J.  Irwin;  Elder,  M.  Hillis  Boyd. 

Geo.  W.  Mechlin;  Elder,  S.  B.  Mercer. 

D.  H.  Sloan;  Elder,  Jas.  B.  McKee. 

J.  Logan  Sample;  Elder,  S.  Judson  Craighead. 

Abm.  T.  Bell;  Elder,  D.  Porter  Marshall. 

B.  Frank  Boyle;  Elder,  P.  K.  Bowman. 

B.  Shields  Sloan;  Elder,  John  Wherry. 

Andrew  Virtue;  Elder,  J.  G.  McHenry,  M.  D. 

H.  Magill ;  Elder,  E.  B.  Camp. 

Perrin  Baker;  Elder,  Wm.  H.Jack. 


32r  }rrsTORY  of  tke 


1880.     Minister,  T.  Davis  Ewing;  Elder,  Wm.  Rca. 

Minister,  Samuel  A.  Hughes;  Elder,  John  Leard. 
lUSl.     Minister,  f.  Horner  Kerr;  Elder,  Robt.  E.  Leard. 

Minister,  David  Hall;  Elder,  Robt.  O.  Clever. 

1882.  Minister,  Alex.  Donaldson;  Elder,  L.  To-n-nsen. 
Minister,  John  Gourlev  ;  Elder,  Jas.  McMullen,  M.  D. 

1883.  Minister,  D.  J.  Irwin;  Elder,  Robt.  R.  Rav. 
Minister,  Lycurgus  Mechlin:  Elder,  G.  W.  Dovcrspike 

1884.  Minister,  Franklin  Orr;  Elder,  S.  P.  Townsend. 
Minister,  D.  H.  Sloan;  Elder,  Samuel   P.Caldwell. 

1885.  Minister,  G.  W.   Mechlin;  Elder,  Robt.  E.  Harbison. 
Minister,  Abm.  T.  Bell;  Elder,  John  A.  Hall. 

1886.  Minister,  Samuel  W.  Miller;  Elder,  Henrj  K.  Shi-Ids. 

1887.  Minister,  T.  M.  Tliompson;  Elder,  R.  P.  Hunter,  M.  D. 

1888.  Minister,  J.  C.  McCracken;  Elder,  H.  II.  Say. 


COMMISSIONERS  TO  SYNOD  OF  PENNSYLVANIA 


T  TTTTT  TTTTTTTTTT 


1884.  Ministers:    S.  W.Miller,  D.  D.;  D.J.  Irwin,  D.  D  ;  A   Doialdson, 

D    D.;  H.  L.Mayers,  J.  C.  McCracken.     Elders:  Israel  Thomas, 
G.J.  McHenry.M.   D.,  S.  B.  Mercer,    \V.  T.  N.    Wallace,  Jas. 

A.  Thompson. 

1885.  Ministers:     D.  H.  Sloan,  A.  H.  Jelly,  L.  Mechlin,  D    Hall,  D.  D  ,* 

T.  M.  Thompson.  Elders:  Jas.  McMullen,  M.  D.,*  A.  W. 
Wilson,*  R.  E.  Leard,  John  P.  St.  Clair,  Robert  Parks. 
1887.  Ministers:  G.  W.  Mechlin,  D.  D.,  Jos.  H.  Bausman,  Samuel  J. 
Glass,  A.  J.  Gregg,  Julius  Spencer.  Elders:  R.  P.  Hunter,  M. 
D.,  Wm.  Gates,  Hon.  A.  D.  Weir.  Archibald  Findle.v,  S.  M. 
Jackson.* 

1886.  Ministers:     A.  T.  Bell,  John   C.  McCracken,  Jas.  M.  Kelly,  A.J. 

Gregg,  J.  W.  Miller.     Elders:     3.  B.  Mercer,  P.  K.  Bowman.  E. 

B.  Camp,  Jas.  T.  Van  Horn,  R.  O.  Clever.* 


*Not  in  attendance. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  HH 


CONTRIBUTIONS  TO  THE  MINISTRY. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


Statistics  are  not  at  hand  to  justify  the  making  of  com- 
parisons between  this  Presbytery  and  other  portions  of  the 
church  of  Hke  extent  in  the  matter  of  furnishing  men  to  hll 
the  ranks  of  the  ministry,  but  it  is  confidently  believed  that 
few  districts  in  the  entire  domain  of  the  church  have  been 
more  productive.  The  favorable  showing  in  this  respect 
which  the  Presbytery  is  enabled  to  make  is,  no  doubt,  in  a 
good  measure,  to  be  accounted  for  by  the  considerable  num- 
ber of  schools  of  academic  grade  within  its  borders,  some  of 
them  permanently  estabHshed  and  pursuing  their  work  from 
year  to  year  without  interruption,  and  a  larger  number  with  a 
somewhat  broken  continuity  of  existence,  or  perhaps  open 
systematically  only  during  summer  terms.  Man}'  ^^oung  men 
getting  a  taste  for  learning  and  the  rudiments  of  a  classical 
education  m  even  the  humbler  grade  of  these  schools,  have 
passed  on  into  higher  institutions,  and  so  been  fitted  for  the 
work  of  the  holy  ministr}-. 

Foremost  b}^  far  in  this  work  of  enlisting  and  preparincr 
men  have  been  the  academies  at  Elder's  Ridge  and  at  Glade 
Run,  (Dayton),  the  former  founded  in  1847  b}-  Rev.  A.  Don- 
aldson, D.  D.,  and  the  latter  in  185 1  by  the  session  of  Glade 
Run  Presbyterian  Church.  In  this  connection  might  be 
mentioned  also  the  school  at  Saltsburg,  that  at  Slate  Lick, 
and  that  formerly  at  Jacksonville.  Fuller  notice  of  these 
and  other  schools  and  their  work  will  appear  elsewhere.  A 
list  of  persons  licensed  and  ordained  by  this  Presbytery  is 
hereto    appended.       With    very    few  exceptions  the  persons 


'M  HISTORY    OF    T)IK 


licensed  were  members  of  the  churches  in  the  Presbytery.  A 
considerable  number  of  those  ordained  came  into  the  Presby- 
tery from  other  parts  of  the  church.  The  whole  number  of 
persons  Hcensed  has  been  74,  an  average  of  2  7-15  per  year. 
The  number  ordained  has  been  48,  an  average  of  i  3-5  per 
year.  But  the  names  included  in  these  Hsts  do  not  represent 
the  full  contribution  of  the  churches  of  this  Presbytery  to  the 
ministry  of  the  Presbyterian  Church.  A  goodly  number  had 
entered  the  ministry  before  the  organization  of  this  Presbv- 
tery,  and  others  since  that  time,  born  or  reared  within  our 
bounds,  have  been  inducted  into  the  sacred  office  by  other 
Presbyteries. 

In  order  to  complete  the  view  as  far  as  possible,  a  list  of 
the  names  of  these  persons  is  appended.  It  is  not  claimed 
that  this  list  is  absolutely  exhaustive,  as  not  unlikely  some 
have  failed  to  be  noted.  Leaving  out  of  the  count  duplicate 
names  and  the  names  of  persons  not  born  or  reared  in  the 
Presbytery,  the  entire  contribution  of  the  Presbytery  to  the 
ministry  of  the  Presbyterian  church,  so  far  as  ascertained, 
may  be  put  at  no.  Eight  candidates  are  now  under  care  of 
Presb3'^tery.     Following  are  the  lists  above  referred    to: 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  85 


LIST   OF    LICENTIATES. 


TTTTTTTTTTTT 


Name.  Date  of  Licensure, 

Thomas  B.  Anderson April  13,  1870. 

Robert  E.  Anderson April  23,  1877. 

John  C.  Ambrose April  14,  1886. 

Andrew  J.  Bolar April  10,  1861. 

David  Brown April  13,  1869. 

Wm.  J.  Bollman April  13,  1869. 

John  Park  Barbor April  H,  1873. 

Preston    Barr August  ,5,  1880. 

James  E.  Caruthers April  7,  1858. 

Geo.  W.  Chalfant April  25,  1860. 

John  A.  Calhoun April  12,  1865. 

F.  Swartz  Crawford April  24,1878. 

Joseph  P.  Calhoun April  23,  1879. 

James  Henry  Donaldson April  16,1862. 

Samuel  Miller  Davis April  28,  1868. 

Alex.  Hasseltine  Donaldson April  24,  1878. 

Wilson  E.  Donaldson April  27,  1881. 

James  S.Elder January  6,  1858. 

James  A.  Ewing January  6,  1858. 

Thomas  Davis  Ewing July  1,  1863. 

Thompson  R.  Ewing May  10,  1867. 

William  F.  Ewing April  10,  1873. 

J.  C.  Rhea  Ewing April  24,  1878. 

Alex.  Scott  Foster April  15,1863. 

Joseph  T.  Gibson May  2,  1871. 

John  C.  Gilkerson December  18,  1879. 

Adolphus  E.  Good April  27,  1881. 

William  T.  Garroway June  28,  1882. 

A.Jackson  Gregg April  23,  1884. 

Jacob  J.  Hawk April  4,  1871. 

Dilwyn  M.  Hazlett April  8,  1874. 

John  S.  Helm July  1,  1880. 

David  Johnston  Irwin April  25,  I860. 

A.  Forbes  Irwin April  5,  1876. 


8fi  '  HISTORY    OF    THE 


Nnmc.  Date  of  licensure. 

John  C.  Irwin April 

Hervey  B.  Knight June 

James  E.  Lapsley April 

Samuel  T.  Lewis April 

Newel  S.  Lowry April 

Thomas  W.  Leard    June 

John  Y.  McCartney April 

James  Harvey   Marshall January 

Thomas  A.  McCurdy December  30, 

John  K.  McKallip April 

VVm.  W.  McLane July 

Albert  B.  Mars^hall June 

Robert   McCaslin April 

Nelson  H.  Miller April 

Lycurgus  Mechlin April 

John  N.  McCoy April 

John  C.  McCracken April 

James  Mason  McComb April 

Irwin  P.  McCurdy April 

John  C.  Mechlin April 

John  Orr July 

Carson  Reed. April 

James  S.  Reed April 

Wm.  H.  Robinson July 

Matthias  M.  Shirley April 

Robert  C.  Stewart April 

J.  St.  Clair  Stuchell April 

B.  Shields  Sloan July 

Virgil  G.  Sheeley April 

Robert  L.  Smith July 

John  C.  Thorn January 

John  Goodwin  Touzeau December  31, 

John   W.  Van  Etnan April 

Louis  B.  Williams October 

Henry  H.  White June 

Johnston  D.  White April 

Samuel  G.  Wilson April 

Robert  D.  Wilson December  18, 

Joseph  L.  Weaver June 

A.  Frank  Walker April 


24 

1878. 

2fJ 

18«6. 

15 

18(33. 

27 

1877 

25 

1860 

6 

1S78 

15 

1857 

2 

1861 

30 

1863 

13 

1870 

2 

1872 

2o 

1873 

10 

1873 

10 

1873 

5 

1870 

4 

1877 

4 

1S77 

28 

1880 

27 

1881. 

14 

1880 

1 

1863 

13 

1864 

13 

1864 

1 

1880 

7 

1858 

25 

1860 

10 

1861 

1 

1S63 

12 

1865 

1 

188(1 

5 

,1859 

31 

1884 

10 

1873 

2 

1861 

25 

1862 

24 

1878 

24 

1878 

18 

1879 

28 

1882 

25 

1883 

PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  37 


ORDINATIONS. 

T  TTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 

Ordinations  by  this  Presbytery  have  been  as  follows^ 

Name.  Title.  Date. 

John  C.  Ambrose Pastor June 

Abraham  T.  Bell Pastor December 

Dewitt  M.  Benham Pastor October 

B.  Frank  Boyle Pastor.... June 

Perrin   Baker .Pastor May 

Joseph  P.  Calhoun Pastor April 

James  E.  Car uthers Pastor May 

D.  D.  Christv Pastor July 

Alex.  H.  Donaldson Evangelisr,  H.  M.,N.  Mexico.July 

Thomas  Robinson  Elder Evangelist,  H.  M.,  Michigan. April 

Thomas  Davis  Ewing Pastor May 

J.  C.  Rhea  Ewing Evangelist,  F.  M.,  India .September 

Addison  .S.  Elliott Pastor June 

Alex.  Scott  Foster„ Evangelist April 

Wm.  F.  Gibson Pastor June 

John  Gourley Pastor June 

Adolphus  E.  Good„ Evangelist,  F.  M.,  Africa June 

A.  Jackson  Gregg Pastor April 

Dilwyn  M.  Hazlett Evangelist,  F.  M.,  Brazil  May 

John  S.  Helm Evangelist,  H.  M.,  Iowa June 

David  Johnston  Irwin Pastor June 

Austin  H.  Jolly Pastor August 

1  ohn   P    Ken  nedy Pastor July 

James  M.  Kelly Pastor June 

James  E.   Lapsley Evangelist June 

Houston    W.  Lo wry Pastor ]u]y 

Robert  McMillan Pastor August 

James   H.  Marshall Evangelist,  Armj'  Chaplain. .September  19 

James  D.  Moorhead Pastor November     2 

Albert  B.  Marshall Evangelist October 

James  Mason  McComb Evangelist April 

Geo.  W.  Mechlin Pastor Februar 


28 

1887 

31 

1872 

12 

1887 

35 

1873 

11 

1875 

27 

1887 

12 

1859 

3 

1860 

2 

1879 

15 

1857 

10 

1864 

4 

1879 

36 

1883 

34 

1867 

28 

1877 

6 

1878, 

28 

1883 

39 

1885 

11 

1875 

28 

1882 

19 

1861 

5 

1880. 

14 

1858. 

28 

1882. 

29 

1864. 

12 

1881. 

25 

1857. 

19 

1862. 

2 

1865. 

14 

1874. 

37 

1881. 

20 

1857. 

38  HISTORY    OF    THE 

Name.  Title.  n:i 

Hezekiah  Magill Pastor May 

Lycurgus  Mechlin Pastor June 

John  C.  Mechlin Evangelist,  F.  M.,  to  Persia.Junc 

John  Orr Pastor December 

John  R ice Pastor October 

Wm.  H.Robinson Evangelist,  F.  M.,  Africa June 

Matthias  M.  Shirley Pastor June 

Wm.  G.  Shand Pastor September 

David  Harvey  Sloan Evangelist,  Pastor  Elect July 

Daniel  W.  Town  send Pastor October 

Jacob  L.  Thompson Pastor Jan  uar y 

Francis  E.Thompson Pastor June 

John  Goodwin  Touzeau Evangelist,  F.  M.,S.  America.May 

Wm.  J.  Wilson Pastor June 

Samuel  G.  Wilson Evangelist,  F.  M.,  Persia July 

Robert  D.  Wilson Evangelist,  Prof.  W.  T.  Sem.June 


9. 

1867 

29. 

1877 

28. 

1887 

28, 

1864 

7, 

1857. 

21, 

1881 

30. 

1859 

1. 

1857 

2 

1872 

6, 

1858. 

20. 

1874. 

25, 

1873, 

11, 

1886. 

14. 

1876. 

1, 

1880. 

9. 

1885 

PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING. 


39 


OTHER  CONTRIBUTIONS  OF  THE  MINISTRY. 


TTTTTTTITITTTTTT 

Name.  When  Ordained. 

Wm.  K.  Marshall,  D.  D 

Reuben  Lewis November     1, 

Wm.  M.  Robinson January        14, 

Robert  A.  Hill September    4, 

Henry  M.  Paynter June 

Jas.  W.  McClusky June 

James  M.  Shields,  D.  D August        29, 

John  W.  White December  25, 

Thomas  J.  Taylor.... November 

Alex.  S.  Marshall April 

David  Hall,  D.  D August        25, 

Benjamin  L.  Agnew,  D.  D February       8, 

John  Y.  McCartney October 

James  A.  Ewing December 

John  F.  Hill December  29, 

James  S.  Elder September    6, 

John  H.  Nesbit October 

Samuel  A.  Hughes February     18, 

James  Shields  Boyd September 

Robert  Sutton November 

Thomas  M.  Wilson October 

Edward  P.  Lewis April 

Thompson  R.  Ewing,  D.  D April  30, 

Jesse  B.  Wilson May 

James  H.  Shields May  7, 

A.  Fulton  Boyd , June 

Samuel  B.Fleming June  14, 

James  H.  Hawk June  23, 

Wm.  H.  McFarland October        10, 

Robert  H.  Fulton June  7, 

James  R.  McQuown June 

David  R.  McCaslin June  27, 

Asa  Leard 

Wm.  P.  Chalfant September     9, 

James  B.  Caruthers June  29, 


By  What  Presbytery. 

1838 Logansport. 

1837 Erie. 

1846 Zanesville. 

1848 Ref.  Pres.  Church. 

1852 Mississippi- 

1852 Ft.    Wayne. 

1855 Erie. 

1855 Carlisle. 

1856 Cedar. 

1857 Cedar. 

1857 Allegheny. 

1858 Blairsville. 

1858 Ohio. 

1858 Clarion. 

1858 Ref.  Pres.  Church. 

1859 Clarion. 

1861 Saginaw. 

1862 Columbus. 

1868 Allegheny. 

1863 Clarion. 

1863 Schuyler. 

1865 Highland. 

1868 Blairsville. 

1870 Erie. 

1872 Bellefontaine. 

1874 Redstone. 

1874 Emporia. 

1874...'. Clarion. 

1876 Ft   Wayne. 

1877 Pittsburgh. 

1877 Allegheny,  (C.  P.) 

1877 Blairsville. 

1879 Chicago. 

1884 Pittsburgh. 

1887 Clarion. 


40'  HlSTORy    OF    THE 


MEETINGS  OF    PRESBYTERY. 


During  the  entire  period  of  its  existence  the  Presbytery 
has  held  four  stated  meetings  each  year,  known  respectively 
as  the  spring,  summer,  fall  and  winter  meeting,  except  that  in 
the  years  1863  and  1870  no  winter  meeting  was  held,  and  in 
the  year  187 1  the  meeting  held  was  an  adjourned  meeting. 
The  winter  meetings  have  been  largely  devoted  to  devotional 
exercises  and  to  conferences  upon  subjects  connected  with 
the  work  and  welfare  of  the  Church,  in  accordance  with 
a  programme  prepared  in  advance  by  a  committee  appointed 
for  the  purpose.  Some  of  these  meetings  have  been  occasions 
of  much  interest  and  spiritual  enjoyment,  and  several  times 
have  they  been  followed  in  the  church  where  held  or  in  other 
churches  of  the  Presbytery,  by  special  manifestations  of 
the  Holy  Spirit's  presence  and  power.  Asa  matter  of  historic 
record  a  list  of  all  meetings  held  including  special  or  pro  re  nala 
meetings  (those  called  for  a  particular  purpose)  and  adjourned 
meetings  (those  appointed  by  Presbytery  while  in  session  to 
transact  business  then  arising  or  to  complete  business  un- 
finished), is  hereto  appended. 

The  meetings  naturally  have  been  most  frequent  in  the 
larger  and  more  easily  accessible  churches.  Of  the  fifty 
churches  now  on  the  roll,  all  but  thirteen  have  had  the  Pres- 
bytery once  or  oftener.  These  thirteen  less  favored  churches 
are  the  following,  viz:  Bethel,  Crooked  Creek,  Clinton,  East 
Union,  Homer,  Kittanning,  2d,  Middle  creek.  Mount  Pleasant, 
Mahoning,    Midway,    Rockbridge,    Smicksburg,    Tunnelton, 


PRESBVTERY    OF    KITTANNING. 


41 


In  this  list  most  of  the  newer  organizations  have  been  in- 
cluded. A  number  of  meetings  were  held  at  places  without 
the  bounds  of  the  Presbytery,  mostly  in  connection  with 
meeting  of  Synod  at  the  same  place.  These  places  are  indi- 
cated by  an  asterisk.  The  whole  number  of  meetings  held  in 
thirty  years  has  been  167,  an  average  of  a  little  more  than 
5^  per  year.  These  meetings  in  detail  as  to  place  and  time 
have  been  as  follows: 


Place.  Ti:Tie. 

Indiana January  6,  1857. 

Crlade  Run,  adjourned February  30,  1857. 

Elder's  Ridge April  14,  1857. 

Elderton June  'M,  1857. 

Warren,  (Apollo)  adj August  25,  1857. 

Ci;ntre,  adjourned September  1,1857. 

Harmony October  ti,  1857. 

Carrie's  Run .January  5,  1858. 

Bethel April  6,  1858. 

Glade  Run .June  22,1858. 

Clierry  Tree,  adjourned. ..July  14,  1858. 

Parnassus Octolier  5,  1858. 

*Blairsville,  adjourned.. ..October  33,1858. 

Let'chburfj- .January  4,  1859. 

Kittanning-  April  12,  1859. 

Boiling  Spring,  adj May  12,  1859. 

Oilgal .June  28,  1859. 

Currie's  Run,  ndjourned...June  30,  1859. 

Rural  Valley October  4,  18.59. 

Jacksonville January  .3,  1800. 

Boiling  Spring April  24,  1860. 

West  Lebanon .June  26,  1860. 

Washington,  adjourned. ..July  3,  1860. 

Saltsburg Octolier  3,  1860. 

Indiana,  adjourned October  19,  1860. 

Washington January  1,  1861. 

Elder's  Ridge April  9,  1861. 

Kbenezer .June  18,  1861. 

Warren,  (Apollo) October  1,1861. 

Kittanning,   adjourned October  11,  1861. 

Saltsburg December  31,  1861. 

Currie's  Run April  1,5,  1862. 

Cherry  Tree .June  24,  1862. 

Glade  Run,  special September  19,1862. 

Centre October  7,  1862. 

♦Pittsburgh,  adjourned. ...October  22,  1862. 

Jacksonville  .January  6,  1863. 

Indiana April  14,  1863. 

West  Lebanon,  adj May  4,  1863. 

I.cechburg  .June  30,  1863. 

Rural  Valley October  6,  1803. 

<;iade  Run April  12,  1864. 

Kittanning,  adjourned May  10,  1864. 

Pine  Run .June  38,1864. 

6 


Place.  Time. 

Clarksburg,  adjourned...  .July  5,  1864. 

Elderton October  4,  1864. 

Warren,  (Apollo) December  27.  1864. 

West  I-ebanon April  11,  1865. 

Centre July  .5,  1865. 

Jacksonville,  (special) August  18,  1865. 

Bethel October  3,  1865. 

Plum  Creek,  special November  3,  1865. 

Appleby  Manor December  26,  1865. 

Indiana April  34,  1866. 

Elder's  Ridge .June  26,  1866. 

Parnassus September  25,  1866. 

'  Kittanning December  2.5,  1866. 

Leechburg,  special March  9,  1867. 

Ebenezer April  23,  1867. 

Indiana,  adjourned April  25,  1867. 

Concord,  adjourned May  10,  1867. 

Harmony .June  25,  1867. 

Apollo,  special September  17,1867. 

Kilt?.nning  October  10,  1867. 

West  Lebanon December  24,  1867. 

Apollo April  28,  1868. 

Plumville .June  2:3,  1868. 

Concord  October  6,  1868. 

*Monongahela  City,  adj...October  16,  1868. 

P.xrnassus December  29,  1868. 

Indiana April  13,1869. 

Kittanning,  adjourned May  1,  1869. 

Appleby  Manor .June  22,  1869. 

Leechburg October  13,  1869. 

*East  Liberty,  adjourned. October  16,  1869. 

Saltsburg December  28,  186!). 

Glade  Run April  12,  1870. 

Marion June  28,  1870. 

Erie,  (order  of  Synod). ....July  8,  1870. 

Freeport October  4,  1870. 

Jacksonville April  4,  1871. 

Kittanning,  special Mav  2,  1S71. 

Lawrenceburg,  (Parker )..July  5,  1871. 

Brady's  Bend October  11,  1871. 

*Franklin,  adjourned October  14,  1871. 

Centre,  adjourned December  20,  1871. 

Saltsburg April  2,  1872. 

Saltsburg,  special May  21,  1872. 


42 


HISTORY    OF    THE 


Plate.  Time. 

Centre .July  1,  1872. 

Saltsburg October  1,  1872- 

Apollo December  17,  1872. 

Kuyne,  adjourned December  31,  1872. 

KIder's  Ridge April  8,  1873. 

Slate  Lick .June  24,  1873. 

♦Allegheny,  adjourned.. ...September  26,1873. 

Ebenezer October  7,  1873. 

Indian;! December  9,  1873. 

Kittanning      April  7,1874. 

Currie's  Run* July  1,  1874. 

(ilade  Run October  13,  1874. 

I-eecbburg December  23,  1874. 

.Saltsburg April  6,1875. 

Boiling-  Spring,  adj May  11,  1875. 

Cherry  Run .June  22,  1875. 

Kittanning  October  6,1875. 

*Brookville,  adjourned. ...October  11,  1875. 

Clarksburg December  32,  1875. 

Kreeport April  4,  1876. 

Union.. June  13,  1876. 

Rural  Valley,  special June  29,  1876. 

Mechanicsburg October  18,  1876. 

Indiana,  adjourned October  23,  1876. 

Apollo December  19,  1876. 

Parker April  3,  1877. 

Freeport,  special April  23,  1877. 

Marion .June  27,  1877. 

Elderton,  adjourned .June  29,  1877. 

West  Glade  Run October  17,  1877. 

♦Greenville,  adjourned October  22,  1877. 

Saltsburg December  19,  1877. 

Ebenezer April  23,  1878. 

Bethel,  adjourned June  6,  1878. 

Cherry  Tree .July  9,  1878. 

Appleby  Manor October  9,  1878. 

*Meadville,  adjourned October  14,  1878. 

Indiana" December  17,  1878. 

Rural  Valley April  22,  1879. 

Elderton.; .July  1,  1879. 

Saltsburg,  special September  4,  1879. 

Slate  Lick October  8,  1879. 

Kittanning,  adjourned October  10,  1879. 

Parker December  17, 1879. 


Place.  Time 

West  Lebanon April 

Indiana .June 

Marion,  adjourned August 

Saltsburg October 

♦Allegheny,  adjourned October 

Jacksonville December 

Indiana,  special March 

Currie's  Run April 

Kittanning,  adjourned May 

Jacksonville June 

Parker,  adjourned July 

Srader's  Grove October 

♦Erie,  adjourned October 

Clarksburg December 

Kittanning,  special April 

Lsechburg April 

Glade  Run .June 

Concord,  adjourned .June 

Elder's   Ridge October 

♦Harrisburg,  special October 

Apollo .January 

Kittanning,  special January 

Ebenezer April 

Mechanicsburg .June 

Indiana October 

Marion .January 

Concord April 

Apollo .June 

Harmony October 

Saltsburg December 

Kittanning .January 

Worthington April 

Parker .June 

Washington October 

Kittanning December 

Freeport April 

Glade  Run May 

Atwood October 

Leechburg December 

Ebenezer April 

Glade  Run .June 

West  Lebanon October 

Parker  City December 

Elder's  Ridge April 


27 

188U. 

30 

1880. 

5 

1880. 

7 

1880. 

9 

1880. 

21 

1880. 

7 

1881. 

26 

1881. 

11 

1881 

21 

1881. 

12 

1881 

18 

1881 

22 

1881. 

6 

1881. 

4 

1882 

25 

1882. 

27 

1882. 

28 

1882. 

10 

1882 

20 

188'J. 

2 

1883 

29 

IS&i 

24 

1883. 

25 

1883. 

15 

1883. 

2 

1884. 

22 

1884. 

17 

1884. 

7 

1884. 

30 

1884. 

12 

1885. 

28 

1885. 

28 

1885. 

6 

1885. 

29 

1885. 

13 

1886 

11 

1886 

12 

1886. 

14 

1886 

26 

1887 

28 

1887 

11 

1887. 

20 

1887. 

10 

1888. 

PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  43 


SPECIAL  SERVICES. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


At  different  times. in  the  history  of  the  Presbytery  arrange- 
ment for  special  meetings  and  services  has  been  made,  with  a 
view  to  promote  the  spiritual  life  of  the  churches  and  to  in- 
struct and  encourage  the  people  to  earnest  and  systematic 
work  on  behalf  of  the  Redeemer's  kingdom. 

On  the  26th  of  December,  1865,  a  plan  was  adopted  for 
conventions  of  ruling  elders.     The  paper  in  part  is  as  follows: 

"  Recognizing  as  we  do  the  specific  claims  of  Jesus  upon  min- 
isters, elders  and  private  members  respectively,  and  the  obligation 
devolving  upon  us  as  a  Presbytery  to  call  out  and  direct  the  humble, 
prayerful,  active  energies  of  all  God's  people  under  our  care  with  a 
view  to  seeking  the  general  revival  of  God's  work  among  us,  there- 
tore, 

1.  Resolved^  That  each  pastor  and  stated  supply  be  enjoined 
to  preach  as  soon  as  practicable,  first,  on  the  specific  duties  of  min- 
isters and  elders;  second,  on  the  specific  duties  of  private  members 
of  the  church  in  relation  to  the  cause  of  Christ." 

2.  The  second  resolution  provides  for  dividing  the  Pres- 
bytery into  three  districts. 

3.  The  third,  among  other  details,  expresses  the  object  of 
these  services  as  follows: 

"  The  object  oi  these  conference  meetings  will  be  a  prayerful 
discussion  of  the  duties  and  responsibilities  of  ruling  elders  in  all 
their  relations   to   the  cause   of    Christ,  with    special    reference  to 


44  HISTORY    OF    THE 


elder's  visitations,  district  prayer  meetings,  and  the  measure  of  their 
obligations  and  facilities  to  call  out  and  bring  into  profitable  exer- 
cise the  active  energies  of  each  and  all  professing  Christians. 

4.  Resolved^  That  a  home  concert  of  prayer  be  held  at  every 
closet,  family  altar  and  prayer-meeting  within  our  bounds,  on  the 
evening  preceding  ihe  meeting  of  the  elders'  conferences,  on  behalf 
of  their  convocations  and  the  special  work  which  they  contemplate. 

5.  Resolved^  That  following  these  elders'  conferences,  the  min- 
i^ters  engage  in  a  general  visitation  of  the  churches,  spending  from 
one  to  three  days  in  public  and  social  religious  exercises  in  each." 

The  statistics  next  following  these  arrangements  show 
very  considerable  accessions  to  a  number  of  the  churches. 
For  at  least  two  succeeding  years  similar  conventions  were 
held. 

At  a  meeting  held  October  14,  1874,  Presbytery,  "  believ- 
ing that  conventions  for  conference  and  prayer,  and  the  dis- 
cussion of  subjects  intimately  connected  with  the  work  of  our 
church,  would  create  and  promote  a  greater  degree  of  inter- 
est in  the  different  departments  of  church  work,"  divided  its 
territory  into  six  districts  and  arranged  to  hold  a  convention 
of  the  pastors,  elders  and  people  of  the  churches  in  each. 
These  meetings  were  commonly  designated  "  district  conven- 
tions," or  Christian  workers'  conventions,"  and  in  some  of  the 
districts  were  wonderfully  popular  and  successful.  Pro- 
grammes of  exercises  were  carefully  prepared  beforehand, 
and  conferences  on  various  subjects  pertaining  to  the  Christian 
life  and  to  church  work  were  held.  In  many  cases  the  at- 
tendance upon  these  meetings  was  beyond  the  capacity  of  the 
churches  in  which  they  were  held,  and  not  infrequently,  during 
the  discussions  and  devotional  exercises,  these  larger  assem- 
blies were  profoundly  impressed.  This  general  description 
will  hold  for  three  or  four  of  the  districts.  In  the  others  the 
popular  interest  was  not  so  great.  But  taking  them  all  in  all, 
it  is  believed  that  they  were  productive  of  great  good,  con- 
tributing to  the  dissemination  of  religious  intelligence,  stirring 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  45 

up  Christians  to  greater  zeal  in  the  Master's  service,  and  in 
some  cases  contributing  to  the  winning  of  souls  for  Christ. 

Of  some  of  these  conventions  memories  are  yet  cherished 
by  man}^  that  were  in  attendance,  and  will  long  be  regarded 
as  precious.  For  ten  years  without  interruption,  except  an 
occasional  failure  in  one  or  two  of  the  districts,  these  meetings 
were  kept  up,  Presbytery  at  its  summer  meetings  appointing 
necessary  committees,  and  the  conventions  taking  place  during 
the  autumn.  At  length  popular  interest  in  most  of  the  dis- 
tricts having  somewhat  abated,  Presbytery  deemed  it  ex- 
pedient to  leave  the  holding  of  these  meetings  to  the  option 
of  the  several  districts.  This  action  was  taken  June  9,  1885, 
since  which  time  they  have  not  been  held. 

At  a  meeting  held  December  18,  1878,  the  following  reso- 
lution was  adopted: 

"  In  view  of  the  fact  that  many  of  our  vacant  churches  have 
been  ior  years  without  a  pastor  and  greatly  need  the  counsel  and 
encouragement  of  Presbytery,  and  believing  that  the  interest  of  the 
churches  might  thereby  be  promoted,  Presb3'tery  hereby  resolves 
to  arrange  for  some  special  services  in  them,  these  services  to  be 
held  by  members  of  Presbytery;  two  ministers  to  be  appointed  to 
each  vacant  church  to  spend  one  week  with  it,  holding  as  many 
social  and  public  services  as  they  may  deem  expedient,  and  very 
especially  to  urge  upon  the  officers  and  leaders  in  the  church  the 
necessity  of  taking  such  steps  as  will  secure  the  regular  preaching 
of  the  Gospel,  offering  such  suggestions  as  to  ways  and  means  as 
they  may  think  best,  and  this  week's  labor  to  close  with  a  com- 
munion service;  the  ministers  holding  these  services  to  receive  no 
pecuniary  remuneration  save  necessary  expenses." 

Arrangements  in  accordance  with  the  above  plan  were 
made  by  Presbytery  and  services  held  in  all  the  churches  then 
vacant.  In  some  of  them  the  services  were  attended  by  re- 
markable manifestations  of  the  Spirit's  presence  and  power, 
revivals  occurring  among  the  most  notable  ever  witnessed  in 
the  Presbytery.  Foremost  in  the  list  of  favored  churches 
may  be  mentioned  Concord,  Middle  creek  and  Mahoning,  to 


4^  HISTORY    OF    THE 


which  the  additions  for  the  year  as  reported  to  next  meeting 
of  Presbytery  were  respectively  67,  42  and  31.  At  Plumville 
there  were  seven  additions. 

At  a  meeting  held  October  13,  1886,  a  plan  was  adopted 
looking  toward  the  holding  of  evangelistic  services  in  such 
churches  as  desired  them,  the  understanding  being  that  pastors 
would  mutually  aid  each  other  in  these  services.  Among  the 
features  of  this  plan  were  the  following:  "Whenever  a 
church  or  pastor  enters  upon  this  work  it  shall  be  preceded 
b}'  several  days  of  prayer  on  the  part  of  the  people."  "  It  is 
recommended  that  not  less  than  one  week  be  devoted  to  each 
place  visited."  "  The  preaching  and  all  the  services  shall,  as 
far  as  possible,  be  along  a  line  to  awaken  an  interest  in  salva- 
tion." As  the  services  thus  suggested  were  intended  to  be 
wholly  voluntary,  it  is  not  certain^  known  in  what  churches 
special  efforts  were  made.  But  the  statistical  reports  for 
1887  reveal  some  of  the  most  noteworthy  additions  on  pro- 
fession in  the  history  of  the  Presbytery.  The  following  ma\ 
be  mentioned:  Indiana,  26;  Saltsburg,  18;  Kittanning,  ist, 
34;  Currie's  Run,  15;  Slate  Lick,  17;  Cherry  Run,  50; 
Rurral  Valley,  no;  Atwood,  28.  In  the  entire  Presbytery,. 
471. 


PRESBYTERY    OF     KITTANNING.  47 


ACTION   ON  OVERTURES. 


In  1859  the  General  Assembly  sent  to  the  Presbyteries  an 
Overture  on  Demission  of  the  Ministry.  This  overture  the 
Presbytery  answered  April  13,  1859,  ^"  ^^^  negative^  assign- 
ing the  following  reasons: 

"  I.  Persons  might  be  tempted  thereby  to  seek,  without 
duly  counting  the  cost,  admission  into  the  office  of  the  Gospel 
ministry. 

2.  If  our  views  of  the  nature  of  the  office  be  correct,  no 
ecclesiastical  court  has  power  to  absolve  ministers  from  their 
ordination  vows. 

3.  There  is  too  strong  a  tendency  at  present  in  the  minds 
of  many  ministers  to  become  secularized,  and  it  is  feared  that 
the  proposed  amendment  would  greatly  increase  that  ten- 
tency." 

The  Assembly  of  1865  submitted  an  overture  looking 
toward  the  establishment  of  a  standing  Commission  or  Court 
of  Appeals  to  consist  of  eight  members,  four  ministers  and 
four  elders,  to  be  elected  by  the  Assembly  and  to  meet  at  least 
once  each  year.  This  the  Presbytery  answered  in  the  nega- 
tive^ adopting  a  report  in  explanation  and  vindication  of  the 
answer  given  that  covers  six  pages  of  the  records. 

As  a  relic  of  the  times  of  the  civil  war  may  be  mentioned 
the  fact  that  July  5,  1865,  a  "  member  of  Presbytery  "  offered 
an  overture  asking  whether  adherence  to  a  particular  political 


48  nrsTORV  of  Tire 


party  named  was  to  be  deemed  inconsistent  with  good  citizen- 
ship or  "  made  a  term  of  communion  "  in  the  Presbyterian 
church.     To  this  the  Presbytery  answered  as  follows: 

"  The  province  of  the  church  is  to  recognize  no  party  or 
parties  as  such.  Loyalty  to  Christ  the  King  and  Head  of  the 
Church,  and  loyalty  to  the  Government  under  which  we  Hve 
as  the  ordinance  of  God  are  the  only  tests  of  good  and  regu- 
lar membership  in  this  respect." 

At  a  meeting  held  June  22,  1869,  the  following  overture 
was  adopted  and  sent  to  the  General  Assembly: 

"  Whereas,  The  present  condition  of  our  church  requires- 
that  the  present  boundaries  of  many  of  the  Presbyteries  and 
Synods  shall  be  changed;  and 

Whereas,  Great  and  unnecessary  inconvenience  exists  in 
many  portions  of  our  church  from  the  fact  that  rivers  and  railroads 
have  been  made  or  have  become  boundaries  of  Presbyteries  and 
Synods  instead  of  centres, 

Therefore,  the  Presbytery  of  Saltsburg  most  respectfully  ask 
the  General  Assembly  to  instruct  those  to  whom  this  matter  of  ad- 
justing the  boundaries  of  Presbyteries  and  Synods  may  be  in- 
trusted, that  as  far  as  possible  they  shall  make  rivers  and  railroads 
centres  instead  of  boundaries." 

At  the  same  meeting,  June  22,  1869,  the  basis  of  union  as 
then  proposed  between  the  two  branches  of  the  Presbyterian 
church  was  affj'oved  by  Presbytery,  twenty  ministers  and 
thirteen  elders  being  recorded  by  name  as  voting,  and  the 
vote  being  unanimous. 

The  Assembly  of  1872  having  submitted  to  the  Presby- 
teries a  new  overture  on  Demission  of  the  Ministry,  Presby- 
tery, April  9,  1S73,  answered  this  overture  in  the  negative^  as 
also  one  on  the  Limitation  of  Appeals. 

December  23,  1874,  ^"^  ^  proposition  to  amend  the  Form 
of  Government  so  as  to  authorize  the  "  rotary  eldership,"  the 
Presbytery  voted  in  the  negative^  the  vote  being  11  to  20. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  49 

At  a  meeting  April  5,  1876,  the  proposition  to  change  the 
Form  of  Government  so  as  to  provide  Synodical  representa- 
tion in  the  General  Assembly  was  answered  in  the  negative 
"  by  a  large  majority." 

On  the  overture  to  secure  reduction  of  representation  in 
the  General  Assembly  by  making  50  the  basis  instead  of  24, 
Presbytery  voted  in  the  negative^  October  19,  1876,  passing  the 
following  resolution : 

"  Resolved^  That  this  Presbytery  does  not  see  the  necessity  for 
the  reduction  of  the  representation  in  the  General  Assembly." 

The  Assembly  of  1878  having  submitted  an  overture 
looking  toward  reduction  of  representation  and  providing  that 
the  basis  of  representation  should  be  the  number  of  ministers 
and  communicants  combined  as  given  in  the  annual  statistical 
reports,  Presbytery  answered,  October  10, 1878,  in  the  affirm- 
ative, the  vote  standing  31  to  11. 

By  the  Assembly  of  1880  two  overtures  pertaining  to  the 
Consolidation  of  Synods  were  submitted,  the  first  providing 
that  the  Synods  at  their  option  might  become  delegated 
bodies,  and  the  second  that  all  appeals  not  affecting  the  doc- 
trine and  constitution  of  the  church  should  terminate  in  the 
Synod.  Both  of  these  were  answered  in  the  negative^  but  in 
regard  to  the  first  of  the  two  the  following  resolution  was 
adopted,  viz: 

"  Resolved^  That  while  answering  thib  overture  in  its  present 
form  in  the  negative,  Presbytery  nevertheless  approves  of  its  main 
design,  but  desires  the  General  Assembly  to  modify  it  so  as  to 
secure  uniformity  of  representation  throughout  the  entire  church 
for  all  Synods  of  like  composition  as  to  numbers." 

The  Synod  of  Pennsylvania  having  submitted  to  its  Pres- 
byteries the  question  whether  the  Synod  should  become  a  del- 
egated body,  this  Presbytery  voted,  April  25,  1883,  in  the 
affirmative. 


50  HISTORY    OK    THE 


The  Assembly  of  1883  having  sent  down  an  overture 
providing  for  reduction  of  representation  by  increasing  the 
basis  from  24  to  36,  this  Presbytery  gave  answer  to  this,  Octo- 
ber 16,  in  the  negative. 

On  the  revised  Book  of  Discipline  submitted  by  the 
Assembly  of  1883,  the  Presbytery  voted,  April  23,  1884, 
unanimously  in  the  negative,  explaining  by  saying  that  "  while 
approving  of  the  main  features  of  the  book,  Presbytery  thinks 
that  some  modification  of  certain  changes  proposed  should  be 
made  before  its  adoption." 

The  new  Book  of  Discipline  having  been  adopted  in  the 
constitutional  manner,  and  the  Assembly  of  1884  having  sub- 
mitted to  the  Presbyteries  certain  proposed  changes  in  it,  this 
Presbytery  voted,  April  28,  1885,  in  the  affirmative.  The 
overture  of  the  same  Assembly  providing  for  the  appointment 
by  the  higher  church  courts,  of  Judicial  Commissions;  and 
also,  that  providing  for  reduced  representation  by  limiting  it 
to  one  minister  and  one  elder  for  each  twenty-four  or  fraction 
of  that  number  not  less  than  a  half,  were  answered  in  the 
affirmative. 

The  Synod  of  Pennsylvania  having  proposed  to  its  Pres- 
byteries a  scheme  of  Synodical  sustentation,  this  Presbytery 
voted  on  the  general  scheme  in  the  affirmative.,  April  29,  1885, 
and  at  the  meeting,  October  7,  1885,  adopted  an  extended  re- 
port of  a  special  committee  submitting  to  Synod  certain  ad- 
ditional features  which  Presbytery  desired  to  have  incorpor- 
ated into  the  general  plan. 

As  to  consolidating  the  official  periodicals  of  the  church. 
Presbyter}'-  voted  in  the  affirmative.,  April  29,  1885. 

As  to  changing  the  Form  of  Government  so  as  to  allow 
the  rotary  system  to  be  applied  to  deacons  as  well  as  elders. 
Presbytery  voted,  October  6,  1885,  in  the  affirmative. 

The  overture  of  the  Assembly  of  1885  in  regard  to 
"  Worship  by  Offerings,"  Presbytery  answered  in  the  nega- 
tive, April  14,  1886,  but  qualified  the  answer  by  the  resolution 


PRESBVTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  51 

that  Presbytery  favored  the  overture  in  its  general  intent  and 
only  desired  delay  in  its  adoption  for  the  perfection  of  its 
details. 

The  plan  of  Synodical  sustentation  as  proposed  by  the 
Synod  of  1885  was  answered  Ma^-  12,  1886,  in  the  negative 
by  a  nearly  unanimous  vote.  In  explanation  of  this 
vote  as  at  variance  with  previous  action  on  the  same  subject, 
it  is  to  be  remarked  that  the  idea  of  local  Presbyterial  susten- 
tation had  grown  in  favor  in  the  Presbytery  and  a  plan  had 
been  partially  wrought  out.  But  the  Synodical  plan  having 
been  constitutionally  adopted,  this  Presbytery  decided  Decem- 
ber 21,  1887,  to  co-operate  under  the  general  scheme  and  ap- 
pointed Rev.  S.  W.  Miller,  D  D.,  to  represent  the  Presbytery 
in  the  Synodical  committee. 

The  overture  of  the  Assembly  of  1886  proposing  removal 
of  the  restriction  of  the  Confession  of  Faith  in  regard  to 
marriage  with  a  deceased  wife's  sister  was  answered  in  the 
affirmative.  At  the  same  time  the  overture  of  the  same 
Assembly  providing  for  a  change  in  the  Form  of  Government 
recognizing  the  right  of  ruling  elders  to  serve  as  moderators 
of  the  various  church  courts  was  answered  in  the  negative. 


52  HISTORY    OK    TJtE 


TEMPERANCE. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


In  regarcl  to  work  done  in  the  cause  of  temperance  reform, 
no  special  pre-eminence  is  claimed  for  this  Presbyter}'.  Yet 
it  may  be  truthfully  said  that  from  the  beginning  it  has 
been  in  full  sympathy  with  the  cause  and  has  ever  been 
ready  to  exert  its  influence  in  all  proper  ways  in  its 
behalf.  A  wholesome  sentiment  in  regard  to  this  matter  per- 
vades our  churches,  and  while  mtemperance,  to  some  extent, 
has  year  by  3'ear  been  doing  its  deadl}?^  work  wnthin  our 
bounds,  few  sections  of  country  will  be  found  in  which  the 
people  as  a  whole  are  more  characterized  by  habits  of  sobriety. 

At  its  second  meeting,  April  16,  1857,  Presbytery  adopted 
a  paper  in  which,  after  allusion  to  the  evils  of  intemperance 
still  manifest  and  to  certain  legislation  on  the  subject  regarded 
as  retrogressive,  occurs  the  following  resolution: 

"  Resolved^  That  Presbytery  is  of  opinion  that  it  is  expelient 
and  desirable  for  its  members,  in  addition  to  preaching  on  the  sub- 
ject in  their  respective  charges,  to  endeavor  to  secure  the  co-opera- 
tion of  the  different  denominations  of  the  church  of  Christ,  in  a 
general  movement  for  reformation  by  pledged  abstinence,  believing 
that  in  view  of  the  legislation  upon  this  subject,  our  only  hope  is  in 
a  return  to  the  good  old  paths  which  conducted  the  cause  of  tem- 
perance to  tb.at  proud  position  which  elicited  and  deserved  the 
admiration  of  the  moral  world.'' 

A  paper  was  adopted  April  14,  1869,  which,  after  reciting 
sundr}'  Scripture  passages  bearing  on  the  subject,  contains  the 
following: 

"  A  Christian  duty  presented  in  the  above  passages  is,  total 
abstiitence  from  alcoholic  liquor  as  a  beverage^  because 


TTIESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  1)3 

"  1.  Its  nature  is  to  deceive.  2.  It  finally  destroys.  3.  Its 
-effects  are  directly  in  conflict  with  being  filled  with  the  Spirit  which 
is  the  exhortation  to  every  Christian.  4.  It  causes  weak  brethren 
■to  offend.  5.  In  its  most  temperate  use  it  has  the  appearance  of 
evil.     And 

"  Whereas,  The  General  Assembly  has  urged  upon  the  Pres- 
byteries the  adopting  of  all  Scriptural  measures  tor  the  suppression 
of  intemperance,  and  believing  that  discipline,  including  the  incul- 
cating of  the  precepts  of  God's  word,  both  in  public  and  in  private, 
as  well  as  admonition,  suspension  and  excommunication,  is  the 
Scriptural  measure  as  respects  the  vice  of  intemperance;  and 
furthermore,  believing  that  the  fearful  prevalence  of  intemperance 
at  the  present  time  calls  loudly  upon  the  church  for  prompt  and  de- 
■cisive  action ;  therefore, 

"  Resolved^  1.  That  we  call  the  attention  of  the  churches  under 
the  care  of  this  Presbytery  to  the  action  of  the  General  Assembly 
of  1865  on  the  manufacture  and  sale  of  alcoholic  liquors,  page  550. 

"2.  That  it  is  the  expression  of  this  Presbytery  that  total  absti- 
nence from  all  alcoholic  liquors  as  a  beverage  should  be  a  pre- 
requisite to  full  membership  in  the  Christian  church,  and  that  what  is 
commonly  known  as  '  temperate  drinking  '  should  be  made  a  sub- 
ject of  discipline,  and  that  the  pastors  and  sessions  of  the  several 
churches  within  the  bounds  of  this  Presbytery  are  hereby  exhorted 
to  be  faithful  in  the  carrying  out  of  the  spirit  of  these  resolutions." 

Some  discussion  going  on  in  regard  to  the  meaning  of  the 
action  of  the  Assembly  of  1871,  the  Presbyter}^,  April  14, 
1872,  instructed  the  delegates  to  the  ensuing  Assembly  "to 
exert  their  influence  to  prevent  any  repeal  or  modification  of 
said  action  that  will  in  any  way  give  countenance  or  encour- 
agement to  the  crime  of  selling  spirituous,  vinous,  or  malt 
liquors  as  a  beverage." 

Both  the  counties  comprised  in  the  Presb3'tery  having 
voted  by  decided  majorities  in  favor  of  the  "  local  option  "  law 
at  the  time  of  its  submission,  Feb.  28,  1873,  and  the  repeal  of 
that  law  by  the  Legisl?*ure  of  1874  being  feared,  Presbytery 
adopted  a  memorial  to  the  Legislature,  April  8,  1874,  which 
is  in  part  as  follows: 


54  HISTORY    OF    THE 


"  Whereas,  The  constant  influence  of  our  churches  is  the 
improvement  of  the  moral  and  intelleclual  condition  of  the  people, 
to  the  great  advantage  of  the  state,  while  the  influence  of  license  is 
to  enfeeble  and  degrade  the  citizens  and  to  multiply  crime  and 
criminals  to  the  great  disadvantage  of  the  same;  therefore, 

'•'•Resolved^  That  we,  the  members  of  this  Presbytery,  convened 
in  Kittanning,  and  representing  a  membership  of  5,450,  do  earnest- 
ly and  respectfully  urge  you  not  to  bring  upon  the  state  the  calam- 
ities involved  in  repeal," 

Notwithstanding  the  protest  of  the  Presbytery  the  law 
was  repealed. 

In  1875  Presbytery  sent  Rev.  T.  D.  Ewing  as  a  delegate 
to  the  "  National  Temperance  Convention,"  which  met  in 
Chicago,  June  i  of  that  3'ear, 

The  following  resolutions  were  adopted"  June  23,  1875,  ^'i^: 

"  In  view  of  the  terrible  evils  of  intemperance  in  our  land  and 
nation,  and  especially  in  view  of  the  bold  and  defiant  position  taken 
by  those  who  are  engaged  in  the  liquor  traffic,  we  believe  that  the 
time  has  come  when  the  united  influence  of  the  whole  Christian 
church  and  all  friends  of  humanity  should  be  brought  to  bear 
directly  and  steadily  against  the  liquor  traffic  and  to  secure  the  prohi- 
bition of  the  manufacture,  importation  and  sale  of  intoxicating 
liquors  as  a  beverage;  therefore, 

'•'■Resolved.,  1.  That  we  earnestly  urge  upon  the  members  of 
our  churches  and  all  good  citizens  to  unite,  in  the  use  of  all  lawful 
means,  for  the  entire  prohibition  of  the  manufacture,  importation 
and  sale  of   intoxicating  llquois  as  a  beverage. 

"  2.  That  we  believe  the  time  has  come  when  Christian  men 
should  vote  only  for  men  of  known  temperance  principles  to  fill  all 
civil  offices. 

"  3.  That  the  ministers  of  this  Presbytery  are  directed  to  preach 
on  the  present  condition  of  the  temperance  question  during  the 
month  of  July,  or  as  soon  as  convenient,  in  each  church  of  their 
charge." 

A  paper  was  adopted  April  26,  1882,  of  which  the  follow- 
ing is  an  extract: 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  55 

"  Whereas,  The  friends  of  God  and  humanity  seem  to  be 
organizing  to  promote  the  temperance  reform  by  means  of  a  Con- 
stitutional Amendment  Association  for  securing  prohibition;  there- 
fore, 

"  Resolved^  That  as  a  Presbytery  we  recommend  to  all  the  peo- 
ple under  our  care,  and  to  all  others  who  are  in  sympathy  with  this 
movement,  to  use  all  just  and  honorable  means  to  promote  the 
interests  of  this  cause." 

The  following  paper  on  "  The  Cup  in  the  Lord's  Supper  " 
was  adopted  October  8,  1884: 

"  Whereas,  A  continued  and  growing  interest  throughout  the 
church  is  manifested  in  the  question  as  to  the  element  most  fitting 
to  be  used  to  represent  the  blood  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  in  the 
sacrament  of  the  supper;  and 

"  Whereas,  The  element  used  by  our  Lord  is  referred  to  by 
Himself  and  by  the  sacred  writers  as  'the  cup,'  and  'the  fruit  of 
the  vine,'  the  term  wine  being  no  where  specifically  mentioned; 
(Mat  26:  27,  29;  Mark  14:  23,  25;  Luke  22:  17,  18,  20;  I.  Cor. 
11:  25,  26,27,28);  and 

"  Whereas,  The  juice  of  the  grape  as  first  expressed,  or  as 
preserved  without  change  by  fermentation,  in  our  view  unquestion- 
ably meets  all  the  requirements  of  the  case,  and  is  free  from  the 
objections  urged  by  some  against  fermented  wine;  therefore, 

"  Resolved^  That  this  Presbytery  without  desiring  to  limit  by 
rigid  enactment  the  liberty  heretofore  allowed  to  sessions  in  regard 
to  this  matter,  hereby  expresses  to  all  its  churches  its  cordial 
approval  of  such  unfermented  wine,  and  its  wish  that  such  use  might 
become  general;  but  whatever  kind  of  wine  may  be  used,  we  urge 
that  care  be  taken  in  its  selection  that  it  be  not  a  mere  artificial 
mixture  labeled  to  suit  the  purpose  of  the  manufacturer  or  vender, 
but  literally  and  truly  the  product  of  the  grape,  the  actual  '  fruit  of 
the  vine.' " 

Since  January  4,  1883,  the  Presbytery  has  had  a  standing 
committee  on  Public  Morals,  whose  duties  are  thus  defined: 
"  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  this  committee  to  promote  the  cause 
of  temperance,  Sabbath  observance,  and  of  public  morality  in 


56*  msTouY  OF  TirE 


general,  within  our  bounds,  by  the  active  use  of  all  proper 
means,  making  such  report  or  recommendation  to  Presbyter} 
as  their  judgment  may  suggest."  This  committee  makes 
report  to  the  Presbytery  annually. 

For  over  twenty  years  the  villages  of  Freeport,  Leech- 
burg,  Apollo  and  Saltsbufg,  by  special  Act  of  Legislature 
have  had  the  sale  of  intoxicants  as  a  beverag'e  within  their 
limits  prohibited.  Owing  to  the  steady  growth  of  adverse 
sentiment,  licensed  houses  have  been  graduall}^  disappearing, 
so  that  w^hile  a  considerable  number  rem.ained  they  were  con- 
fined mainly  to  a  few  leading  places.  During  about  four 
years  past  there  has  been  an  unwonted  activity'  in  seeking  to 
promote  the  cause  of  temperance  reform,  not  confined  by  any 
means  to  the  churches  and  people  of  the  Presbyterian  name,, 
but  very  generally  participated  in  by  them.  It  has  as  a  local 
movement  taken  the  form  of  opposition  in  the  courts  to  the 
granting  of  all  licenses.  Petitions  in  favor  of  licensed  houses- 
have  been  met  by  general  remonstrances  containing  thousands 
of  signatures  and  by  affidavits  and  remonstrances  intended  to 
bear  against  individual  applicants.  As  a  result  all  licenses- 
applied  for  have  been  for  three  years  refused  b}'  the  court  in 
Indiana  count}^  and  in  1887  all  were  refused  by  the  court 
in  Armstrong  county  but  three,  these  being  in  localities 
where  no  formidable  remonstrance  was  made,  and  in  1888  all 
were  refused,  so  that  at  present  there  is  not  a  single  bar 
legally  protected  within  our  borders. 

In  securing  the  result  thus  indicated,  manifest  injustice 
would  be  done  if  there  were  failure  to  note  the  influence  and 
active  agency  of  the  Woman's  Christian  Temperance  Union 
throuph  its  various  organizations  within  our  bounds.  The 
multiplication  of  their  organizations  and  the  growth  of  their 
work  and  influence  within  the  past  two  or  three  years  have 
been  phenomenal.  This  is  indicated  by  the  following  brief 
extracts  from  the  "  Annual  Report  of  the  Womans'  Christian 
Temperance  Union  of  Pennsylvania  "  for  1886: 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  57 

"  Indiatia  county.  The  work  here  is  untiring  and  harmonious. 
Literature  is  distributed  in  great  quantities,  and  wide-awake  women 
stand  by  Judge  White  in  his  efforts  to  keep  the  saloons  closed. 
Nine  unions  have  oi'ganized  during  the  year.  One  union  has  dis- 
tributed literature  in  every  school  in  the  townshijD.  There  has 
been  a  continual  increase  of  interest  since  our  last  meeting." 

"  Armstrong  county.  It  is  in  the  lead  of  all  organized  effort, 
and  I  am  sure  it  cannot  be  matched  in  the  United  States.  Last 
November  it  had  three  unions,  now  it  has  forty-two,  twenty-six  of 
them  organized  by  the  county  president,  (Mrs.  Virginia  G,  Peart) 
and  eight  by  Mrs.  Safford,  of  Luzerne  county.  $1,  284.67  have 
been  raised  for  temperance  work." 


58  HISTORY    OF    THE 


RECORD  IN  THE  WAR  FOR  THE   UNION. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


No  statistics  are  at  hand  from  which  to  draw  precise  state- 
ments as  to  the  number  of  men  furnished,  or  the  value  of  the 
service  rendered,  by  the  constituency  of  this  Presbytery  in 
the  memorable  struggle  incurred  by  this  nation,  a  little  more 
than  a  quarter  of  a  century  ago,  in  the  effort  to  preserve  its 
own  life.  In  a  few  of  the  congregations  there  were  tem- 
porary disturbances  growing  out  of  questions  pertaining  to 
the  war  at  its  inception  or  during  its  continuance,  but  these 
were  scarcely  noticeable  as  discords  in  the  harmony  of  public 
sentiment,  and  detracted  but  little  from  the  patriotic  and 
enthusiastic  support  given  to  the  government  in  the  time  of  its 
pressing  need  and  perilous  extremity.  From  some  of  our 
churches  men  went  out  in  large  numbers  carrying  their  Bibles 
in  their  pockets,  a  token  that  they  felt  that  the  cause  was 
God's  as  well  as  their  country's;  and  probably  not  a  church 
then  on  the  roll  of  the  Presbytery  failed  to  contribute  a  con- 
siderable number  of  its  sons  to  swell  the  ranks  of  the  citizen 
soldiery  who  across  many  a  field  of  blood  fought  their  way  to 
victory.  And  there  is  not  within  our  borders  a  quiet  rural 
burial  ground  but  contains  graves  that  on  Decoration  Day  are 
marked  with  flags  and  flowers. 

Two  camps  were  within  our  bounds  for  a  time.  Camp  Orr 
at  Kittanning,  where  two  regiments,  the  78th  and  103d  Pa. 
Volunteers,  w^ere  recruited  and  drilled  in  1861,  and  Camp 
Wright  at  Ilulton.  During  the  occupancy  of  Camp  Wright, 
the  Presbytery  in  session  at  Ebenezer,  June  18,  1S61, 
appointed   Rev.   W.   W.  Woodend,  D.  D.,  and  elders   Joseph 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  59 

Thompson  and  Thomas  Gibson,  a  committee  to  report  in  re- 
gard to  sending  supplies  to  the  camp  during  the  time  that  the 
soldiers  might  remain  in  it.  This  committee  the  next  day 
submitted  the  following  report  which  was  adopted,  viz: 

"  Whereas,  the  proclamation  of  the  President  of  the  United 
States  and  the  Governor  of  Pennsylvania  in  reference  to  the 
dangers  that  threaten  our  beloved  country  have  been  promptly 
responded  to  by  many  thousands  of  our  patriotic  fellow-citizens, 
chiefly  from  the  ranks  of  the  young  men,  who  have  offered  their 
services,  some  for  three  months  and  others  for  three  years,  and 
are  now  removed  from  the  reliaious  privileges  and  influences  of  the 
family  and  of  the  church,  and  exposed  to  all  the  vicissitudes, 
dangers  and  corrupting  influences  of  the  camp  and  battle-field;  and 

"  Whereas,  it  is  understood  that  no  provision  has  been  made 
either  by  the  State  or  Federal  Government  for  the  religious 
instruction  of  many  of  the  volunteers,  and  that  many  regiments  of 
them  are  without  chaplains;  therefore, 

"  Resolved^  1.  That  this  Presbytery  hereby  approve  not  only 
ot  the  energetic  efTorts  of  the  Government  to  maintain  its  rightful 
authority  in  the  land,  and  of  the  promptness  with  which  our  citizen 
soldiery  have  responded  to  the  call  of  their  country,  but  likewise 
of  the  efforts  that  have  been  made  by  the  churches  to  aid  the  good 
cause  by  furnishing  religious  books  and  teachers  for  the  army. 

"  2.  That  this  Presbytery  ask  the  privilege  of  sending  seven 
supplies  on  seven  successive  Sabbaths  to  Camp  Wright,  located 
within  our  limits,  to  minister  unto  the  spiritual  necessities  of  the 
soldiers  there  encamped. 

"  3.  That  Rev.  D.  W.  Townsend  be  appointed  to  present  a 
copy  of  this  action  to  Col.  McClean,  the  presiding  officer, 
immediately,  and  ask  his  approval  and  co-operation  in  carrymg  out 
the  wishes  of  Presbytery." 

In  pursuance  of  the  above  action,  the  Committee  on  Sup- 
plies made  the  following  appointments  for  service  at  Camp 
Wright,  which  it  is  believed  were  fulfilled,  although  the 
record  fails  to  make  mention  of  the  fact.  "  Supplies  for 
Camp  Wright:     Mr.  Kennedy  the  4th,  Mr.  McMillan  the  5th 


60  HISTORY    OF    THE 

Sabbath  of  June;  Mr.  Woodend  the  ist,  Mr.  J.  E.  Caruthers 
the  2d,  Mr.  Irwin  the  3d,  Mr.  McElwain  the  4th  Sabbath  of 
July;  and  Mr.  John  Caruthers  the  ist  Sabbath  of  August." 

In  the  minutes  of  June  30,  1863,  occurs  the  following 
statement: 

"  Rev.  Woodend  made  a  statement  and  read  correspondence 
from  the  Army  Committee  of  the  Christian  Commission  request- 
ing ministerial  aid  from  this  Presbytery,  and  he  having  volunteered 
his  services  to  visit  the  army  of  the  Cumberland,  the  Committee 
on  Supplies  was  instructed  to  supply  his  pulpit  three  fourthsof  the 
time  for  two  months." 

Similar  appointments  were  made  at  subsequent  meetings, 
the  entire  number  being  thirteen,  including  twelve  ministers 
and  one  ruling  elder,  as  follows:  April  15,  1863,  Mr.  T.  D. 
Ewing,  licentiate,  for  three  months  to  the  Army  of  the  Cum- 
berland; October  6,  1863,  Rev.  F.  Orr  and  Rev.  D.J.  Irwin 
were, appointed,  no  time  or  place  of  service  being  designated; 
December  30,  1863,  Rev.  W.  F.  Morgan.  Rev.  A.  Donaldson, 
D.  D.,  and  Rev.  D.  W.  Townsend  were  designated  to  serve 
for  a  term  of  six  weeks;  April  13,  1864,  Rev.  G.  M.  Spar- 
grove,  Rev.  J.  E.  Caruthers,  and  Elder  Samuel  G.  Miller 
were  appointed  for  a  like  term,  and  in  connection  with  their 
appointment  it  was 

"  Resolved^  That  each  member  of  this  Presbytery  has  a  stand- 
ing commission  to  labor  under  the  Christian  Commission." 

On  December  27,  1864,  Rev.  John  Caruthers,  Rev.  G.  W. 
Mechlin  and  Rev.  J.  H.  Marshall  were  designated  to  go  to 
the  army  for  "  the  usual  term." 

On  the  30th  of  December  1863,  Presbytery  appointed 

*'  Dr.  J.  B.  Finlay  and  Rev.  F.  Orr,  a  committee  to  memorial- 
ize Congress  to  exempt  from  military  duty  all  clergymen  and 
preachers  of  the  gospel  duly  accredited  as  such  by  their  respective 
ecclesiastical  constituted  authorities,  who  are  in  the  active  exercise 
of  their  official  functions." 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  61 

The  memorial  which  was  reported  and  adopted,  after 
assigning  at  length  reasons-  for  the  request  made,  concludes 
as  follows: 

"  8.  That  clergymen  are  unwilling  to  be  understood  as  not 
wishing  to  bear  their  proportion  ot  responsibility  in  the  present 
crisis  of  the  country,  but  they  desire  to  perform  it  in  a  manner  con- 
sistent with  their  sacred  functions." 


62  HISTORY    OF    THE 


MISCELLANY. 


At  a  meeting  held  April  9,  1861,  the  following  paper  on 
the  use  of  tobacco  was  adopted,  viz: 

"  Whereas,  The  habitual  use  of  tobacco  is  wasteful  and 
filthy,  and  pernicious  in  its  bearing,  both  physically  and  morally, 

"  Resolved^  1.  That  our  young  people  generally  and  our  theo- 
logical students  in  particular  be  earnestly  advised  to  abstain  entirely 
from  such  use. 

"  2.  That  all  heads  oi  families  under  our  care  be  earnestly 
urged  to  regard  it  as  an  object  in  the  exercise  of  their  family  gov- 
ernment to  have  the  use  of  tobacco  entirely  excluded  from  their 
families." 

Under  date  of  April  11,  1865,  occurs  this  minute: 

"  Rev.  A.  McElwain  presented  to  Presbvtery  a  certificate  for 
a  perpetual  scholarship  in  Washington  college  owned  jointly  by 
this  and  Blairsville  Presbyteries." 

The  records  show  the  granting  of  the  use  of  this  scholar- 
ship to  designated  persons  at  different  times.  July  10,  1878, 
it  is  on  record  that  "  the  Presbyterial  scholarship  was  left  at 
the  disposal  of  Rev.  F.  Orr." 

In  June,  1867,  Presbytery  appointed  two  of  the  brethren  to 
labor  gratuitously  among  vacant  churches  in  the  West, 
arranging  to  supply  their  churches  at  home  during  their 
absence.  One  of  the  persons  appointed,  Dr.  Woodend, 
reported  afterwards  that  he  had  done  so.  The  other.  Rev.  J. 
E.  Caruthers  gave  satisfactory  reasons  for  not  undertaking  the 
service. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  63 

About  1873,  Presbytery  began  the  custom  of  calling 
churches  failing  to  contribute  to  the  benevolent  work  of  the 
church  to  give  reasons  for  their  delinquency.  Under  the 
action  of  this  rule  that  has  been  followed  ever  since,  sundry 
letters  and  admonitions  addressed  to  the  churches,  and  the 
help  afforded  by  the  permanent  committee  on  beneficence 
appointed  in  1880,  the  churches  have  grown  more  prompt  and 
faithful,  so  that  the  great  majority  of  them  contribute  regularly 
to  all  the  Boards  of  the  church,  and  at  times  the  Presbyterial 
report  has  appeared  with  almost  solid  columns. 

At  a  meeting  of  Presbytery  held  April  9, 1873,  Presbytery 
joined  with  the  congregation  of  Kld^r's  Ridge  in  celebrating 
the  thirty-fifth  anniversary  of  the  settlement  of  Rev.  A. 
Donaldson,  D.  D.,  in  that  congregation,  when  the  brethren  of 
the  Presbytery,  in  token  of  the  esteem  in  which  he  was  held, 
presented  him  a  handsome  chair. 

In  1878  the  standing  rules  of  the  Presbytery  as  then 
revised,  were  published  for  the  first  time  in  pamphlet  form, 
under  the  direction  of  Rev.  J.  J.  Francis,  Stated  Clerk.  The 
rules  were  again  revised  in  1883,  and  published  in  similar  form 
under  the  direction  of  Rev.  D.  H.  Sloan,  Stated  Clerk. 

The  following  resolution  was  passed  October  6,  1878: 

"  Resolved^  That  this  Presbytery  approves  of  the  employment 
of  pious  and  educated  laymen  as  expounders  of  the  Scriptures,  to 
be  emploved  in  holding-  prayer  meetings,  organizing  Sabbath 
Schools,  etc.,  said  laymen  to  be  at  all  times  under  the  control  of, 
and  responsible  to,  the  sej-sion  of  the  church  of  which  they  are 
members." 

Rev.  John  J.  Francis  having  prepared  a  map  of  Presbytery 
showing  the  location  of  all  the  churches,  Presbytery  in  1879 
had  this  map  lithographed  and  published.  It  is  in  size  24  by 
36  inches. 

In  1879  the  Stated  Clerk  of  Presbytery,  Rev.  D.  H. 
Sloan,  prepared  a  series  of  questions  and  suggestions,  twenty- 
eight  points  in  all,  for  the  guidance  of  sessions  in  preparing 


64  HISTORY    OF    THE 


their  annual  narratives  of  the  state  of  rehgion,  the  object  pro- 
posed being  to  secure  proper  fulness  and  uniformity.  This 
outline  was  adopted  by  Presbytery  and  published  for  its  own 
use.  The  results  were  very  satisfactory.  With  a  view  to 
bring  the  advantages  of  method  in  this  matter  to  the  notice  of 
the  entire  church,  Presbytery  in  1884  overtured  the  General 
Assembly  to  appoint  a  committee  to  prepare  an  outline  for 
narratives  for  general  use  to  be  published  by  the  Board  of 
Publication.  The  Assembly  responded  favorably  and  ap- 
pointed a  committee  who  reported  an  outline  to.  the  Assembly 
of  1885,  which  was  adopted  and  is  that  now  in  general  use. 

Early  in  1881  the  Stated  Clerk  of  Presbytery,  Rev.  D.  H. 
Sloan,  prepared  a  full  index  to  the  records  from  the  organiza- 
tion of  Presbytery  onward  which  he  presented  to  Presbytery. 
The  following  resolution  was  passed  in  recognition  of  the 
service,  viz: 

"  Under  a  deep  sense  of  obligation  to  our  energetic  and  accom- 
modating Stated  Clerk  for  the  full  index  of  all  Presbyterial  action 
which  he  has  voluntarily  prepared  and  presented  to  us,  we  accept 
and  appropriate  it  very   gratefully." 

At  a  meeting  held  October  19,  1 881,  Presbytery  decided  to 
join  with  various  other  Presbyteries  in  the  support  and  man- 
agement of  the  Board  of  Colportage  located  at  Pittsburgh, 
Pa.  As  members  of  the  board,  Rev.  S.  W.  iMiller,  D.  D., 
Rev.  T.  M.  Thompson,  W.  B.  Marshall,  Esq.,  and  Hon.  A. 
D.  Weir  have  been  chosen  from  year  to  year  until  October, 
1886,  when  the  last  named  having  removed  from  the  Presby- 
tery., Findley  P.  Wolfe,  Esq.,  was  chosen  in  his  place. 

At  a  meeting  held  October  16,  1883,  Presbytery  adopted 
an  overture  to  the  Synod  of  Pennsylvania  on  the  subject  of 
marriage  and  divorce,  asking  the  Synod  to  appoint  a  com- 
mittee representing  some  of  the  best  legal  talent  at  its  disposal 
to  endeavor  to  secure  from  the  Legislature  of  this  Common- 
wealth the  enactment  of  a  law  that  should  contain  the  follow- 
ing features:     I.   Provision  for  the  registration  and  license  of 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  65 

all  persons  contemplating  marriage.  2.  Regulations  concern- 
ing the  granting  of  divorces  and  forbidding  the  granting  of 
them  except  for  Scriptural  causes.  The  Synod  responded  to 
this  overture  by  appointing  an  able  committee.  Tiie  com- 
mittee held  a  meeting  or  two  and  were  preparing  a  thorough 
report  on  the  subjects  indicated,  but  in  the  meanwhile  a  mar- 
riage license  law  was  enacted  by  the  Legislature  of  1885. 

Presbytery  having  noted  the  irregular  and  defective  manner 
in  which  the  records  of  man}^  of  the  church  sessions  were 
kept,  in  1883  prepared,  published  and  distributed  to  all  the 
churches  a  series  of  instructions  and  suggestions  to  sessions 
and  clerks.  These  had  reference  to  the  manner  of  transacting 
business,  but  more  especially  to  the  manner  of  making  and 
keeping  the  records,  and  a  greater  Fulness  and  accuracy  have 
been  the  result. 

Ma}^  12,  1886,  Rev.  F.  Orr  was  designated  to  labor,  as  his 
other  duties  allowed,  as  a  missionary  under  care  of  the  Board 
of  Colportage,  within  the  bounds  of  the  Presbytery. 

A  very  rare  and  interesting  feature  of  the  meeting  held  at 
Elder's  Ridge,  April  11,  1888,  was  the  celebration,  of  the 
fiftieth  anniversary  in  the  pastorate  of  Dr.  Alexander  Donald- 
son over  that  congregation.  The  church  was  decorated  for 
the  occasion,  and  was  filled  to  overflowing  with  deeply  inter- 
ested friends.  After  a  dinner  served  by  the  ladies  of  Elder's 
Ridge  and  West  Lebanon,  in  the  basement  of  the  church,  the 
anniversary  exercises  began  with  an  anthem  by  the  choir.  On 
behalf  of  the  Presbytery  Rev.  F.  Orr  then  presented  to  Dr. 
Donaldson  an  album  containing  photographs  of  his  Presby- 
terial  associates  for  fifty  years.  He  was  followed  by  Rev.  D. 
H.  Sloan,  who  presented  a  memorial  tablet  prepared  by  Rev. 
J.  J.  Francis,  D.  D.,  and  inscribed  with  an  original  jubilee 
poem;  by  Rev.  J.  S.  Elder  and  Rev.  L.  Mechlin  with  golden 
offerings  representing  respectively  the  congregations  of  Elder's 
Ridge  and  West  Lebanon.  A  chair  was  also  presented  to 
Mrs.  Donaldson.     Dr.  Donaldson  made  a  tender  and  felicitous 


66  HISTORY    OF    THE 


response  to  these  gifts  and  salutations,  after  which  Rev.  J.  S. 
Elder,  formerly  a  member  of  the  congregation,  read  an  inter- 
esting history  of  the  "  Old  Log  Church."  The  services 
were  concluded  with  remarks  and  prayer  by  Rev.  G.  W. 
Mechlin,  D.  D.  At  the  preceding  winter  meeting  Dr.  Don- 
aldson had  asked  to  be  released  from  his  charge,  but  the  con- 
gregations, being  now  called  upon  to  answer  to  this  request, 
protested  that  the  tender  tie  that  had  so  long  bound  pastor 
and  people  together  should  be  sundered  only  by  his  death. 
Serum  in  caehim  rcdeat. 


STATISTICAL  SUMMARY. 


Following  is  a  summary  of  the  statistics  of  the  Presbytery 
from  the  beginning.  The  figures  are  presented  without  com- 
parison or  comment,  each  thoughtful  reader  being  able  to  make 
his  own  generalizations  and  draw  his  own  inferences.  The 
year  given  is  that  in  which  the  reports  were  rendered  to  the 
General  Assembl}',  and  the  precise  time  included  in  each 
report  is  from  April  i  of  the  year  preceding  to  April  i  of  the 
year  named.  Previous  to  1881  the  number  of  elders  and 
deacons  was  not  reported.  Several  of  the  Boards  were 
organized  since  the  Presbytery,  as  indicated  by  the  blanks : 


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♦>8  HISTORY    OF    THE 


WOMAN'S     PRESBYTERIAL    HOME    MISSIONARY 

SOCIETY. 


TT^TTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY    MRS.    M.    W.    BET.L 


TT7  TTTTTTTTTTTTT 


The  missionary  idea  came  into  the  world  with  Christianity 
itself.  Christ  came  to  emphasize  and  to  illustrate  God's 
infinite  longing  for  the  salvation  of  men.  He  was  sent  as  a 
missionary  from  Heaven  to  earth,  while  the  heralding  angels 
sang  "  Glory  to  God  in  the  Highest,  and  on  Earth,  Peace, 
Good  Will  Toward  Men,"  and  all  down  the  ages  every 
missionary,  every  missionary  society,  every  children's  band 
has  taken  up  the  joyful  chorus,  "  Peace  on  Earth  and  Good 
Will  Toward  Men."  And  woman,  although  "  last  at  the 
cross  and  first  at  the  sepulchre,"  had  these  later  vears  been 
wont,  Sarah  like,  to  knead  her  cakes  and  roast  her  veal 
behind  the  tent  door,  while  the  Abrahams  dined  with  angels; 
but  by  and  by  she  steps  out  and   inquires: 

"  How  to  begin,  how  to  accomplish  best, 

}Ier  end  of  being  on  earth  and  mission  high." 

Yes,  "  mission  high,"  high  as  the  star  of  Bethlehem,  old  as 
Christianity  and  wide  as  the  earth. 

In  the  summer  of  1881,  a  committee  of  the  Presbytery  of 
Kittanning  appointed  Mrs.  D.  J.  Irwin,  Mrs.  D.  Hall,  Mrs. 
George  W.  Mechlin,  Mrs.  Eva  G.  Thompson,  Mrs.  Wm.  G. 
Parks,  Mrs.  S.  W.  Miller,  Mrs.  Alexander  Donaldson,  Mrs. 
Pollock  and  Mrs.  Fullerton  as  a  Presbyterial  Committee  of 
Home  Missions. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNI^TG.  69 

August  26th,  1 88 1,  the  committee  met  at  Elder's  Ridge 
and  organized  for  Home  Mission  work,  electing  Mrs.  D.  J. 
Irwin,  President;  Mrs.  George  W.  Mechlin,  Vice  President; 
Mrs.  Eva  G.  Thompson,  Secretary;  Mrs.  William  G.  Parks, 
Treasurer. 

On  November  ist,  1882,  the  Society  met  in  Kittanning. 
Those  who  were  anxious  for  the  child  of  one  year,  inquired 
with  eager  faces:  "  What  of  the  night,"  and  joyfully  received 
the  reply,  "  The  morning  cometh."  Instead  of  the  $1,000.00 
asked  of  the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning,  $1,400.00  was  contri- 
buted in  money,  and  over  $400.00  in  boxes  and  packages; 
twenty-six  churches  reporting  societies  and  bands.  Sixteen 
have  separate  organizations  for  Home  Missions,  five  divide 
their  funds  between  Home  and  Foreign  Missions,  and  five  raise 
money  in  "  mite  boxes  "  and  by  donations.  Five  "  bands  "  are 
reported,  some  of  which  contribute  alternate  years  to  Home 
and  Foreign  Missions,  and  the  others  exclusively  to  Home 
Missions. 

The  following  churches  report  societies: 

Apollo,  Bethel,  Clarksburg,  Ebenezer,  Elder's  Ridge,  Freeport, 
'Glade  Run,  Indiana,  Kittanning,  Leechburg,  Marion,  Mechanics- 
burg,  Saltsburg,  Slate  Lick,  Tunnelton,  Worthington. 

And  the  following  churches  report  contributions  to  Home 
Mission  work  by  "  bands,"  "  mite  boxes,"  "  donations  "  and 
*'  H.  and  F."  societies: 

Appleby  Manor,  Clinton,  Concord,  Curries'  Run,  Cherry  Tree, 
Elderton,  Homer  City,  Jacksonville,  Parker  City,  West  Glade 
Run,  West  Lebanon,  Washington. 

October  i6th,  1883,  the  Society  met  in  Indiana,  and  the 
reports  from  the  auxilliary  societies  were  quite  encouraging, 
showing  an  advance  in  organizations,  contributions  and 
interest. 

June  18,  1884,  the  Society  met  in  Apollo,  and  here  we 
walked  alone.        Hitherto  we  had  held  closely  the  strong  and 


70  HISTOftY    or-     TIIK 


tender  hand  of  our  brother,  (Presbyter})  but  realizing  that 
"  whosoever  hath  to  him  shall  be  given,"  we  timidly  stepped 
forth.  To  our  little  strength  "shall  be  given."  To  our 
blundering  efforts  "shall  be  given."  To  our  whispered 
prayers  "  shall  be  given." 

June  9th,  1885,  the  Society  met  in  Parker  City.  An  elec- 
tion of  officers  resulted  as  follows:  Mrs.  Eva  G.  Thompson, 
President;  Miss  Maggie  B,  Irwin,  Mrs.  D.  J.  Irwin,  Mrs.  T. 
B.  Elder,  Mrs.  H.  W.  Lowry,  Vice  Presidents;  Mrs.  A.  T. 
Bell,  Secretary;  Miss  Juliette  Robinson,  Treasurer. 

June  i6th,  1886,  the  Society  met  in  Elderton,  where  the 
reports  showed  twenty-eight  auxiliary  societies,  five  bands  and 
live  hundred  and  twenty -eight  (528)  members.  Money  paid 
to  W.  E.  C.  for  Hom.e  Missions,  $586.00,  and  boxes  and 
packages  amounting  to  $702.00. 

June  15th,  1887,  the  Society  met  in  Leechburg,  and 
although  no  new  auxiliaries  were  reported  there  was  an  increase 
in  membership  and  liberality.  "  Nothing  in  this  world  keeps 
but  the  human  soul,"  everything  else  lives  but  to  decay,  but 
this  mission  work,  with  the  sweet  word  "  Home  "  attached 
lies  so  near  the  human  heart  that  we  may  assure  ourselves  it 
will  live  perpetually. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  71 


WOMAN^S    PRESBYTERIAL    FOREIGN    MISSIONARY 

SOCIETY. 


rrTTTTTTTrrrrrrr 


BY    MRS.    T.    B.    ELDER, 


TTT T TTTT TTTTTTTT 


In  April,  1874,  ^^^  Presbytery  of  Kittanning,  after  some 
discussion  appointed  a  committee  to  make  arrangements  for  a 
missionary  convention,  which  should  have  special  reference  to 
*'  woman's  work  for  woman  "  in  heathen  lands.  This  conven- 
tion was  called  to  meet  in  Apollo  on  the  17th  of  June,  1874. 
There  were  present  about  160  delegates,  representing  two- 
thirds  of  the  churches  in  the  Presbj^ter}'-.  The  report  of  that 
meeting  speaks  of  it  as  a  convention  marked  from  the  first  by 
great  enthusiasm,  with  evident  tokens  of  the  presence  and 
power  of  the  Holy  Spirit.  The  interest  of  that  convention 
was  largely  owing  to  the  soul-stirring  addresses  of  the 
returned  missionaries  present — Rev.  W.  F.  Johnston,  D.  D., 
India;  Rev.  S.  G.  M'Farland  and  wife,  Siam;  Miss  Loring,  of 
Syria,  (now  wife  of  Rev.  W.  M.  Taylor,  of  Mt.  Jackson,  Pa.,) 
and  Dr.  George  P.  Hays,  then  President  of  Washington  and 
Jefferson  College.  The  interest  was  much  intensified  by  the 
great  sympathy  of  the  audience  with  the  object  of  the  con- 
vention and  the  earnestness  with  which  the  women  of  our 
churches  seemed  ready  to  enter  anew  upon  the  great  work  of 
bringing  the  world  to  Christ,  showing  how  groundless  the 
fears  expressed  by  many  members  of  the  Presbytery,  that  the 
churches  were  not  ready  for  this  convention.     At  the  close  an 


72  HISTORY    OF    THE 


executive  committee  of  fifteen  ladies  was  appointed  to  take 
charge  of  this  work  in  the  Presbytery.  The  following  are 
the  names  of  that  committee: 

Mrs.  T.  D.  Ewing,  Kittanning;  Mrs.  B.  F.  Boyle,  Slatelick; 
Mrs.  James  Bovard,  Marion;  Mrs.  T.  B.  Elder,  Elder's  Ridge;. 
Mrs.  E.  M.  Forrester,  Freeport;  Mrs.  Dr.  Hall,  Indiana;  Mrs. 
vS.  II.  Holliday,  Brady's  Bend;  Mrs.  D.  J.  Irwin,  Ebcnezci  ;  Mrs, 
Alice  A.  iVlagill,  Apollo;  Mrs.  Dr.  Mechlin,  Glade  Run;  Mrs. 
M.  W.  M'Mullen,  Mechanic.sl)urj£;  Mrs.  Franklin  Orr,  Jackson- 
ville; Miss  Dorcas  Riisstll,  (now  Mrs.  El  wood,)  Clarksburg;  Mrs, 
D.  H.  Sloan,  Lecchlnirg;  Mrs.  M.  A.  Sutton,  Indiana. 

This  committee  held  its  first  meeting  in  Freeport,  July 
9th,  1874,  Mrs.  T.  D.  Ewing  was  chosen  President,  Mrs.  M. 
A.  Sutton,  Vice  President;  Mrs.  Dr.  Hall,  Treasurer,  and 
Mrs.  T.  B.  Elder,  Recording  Secretary.  With  the  aid  of 
Rev.  T.  D.  Ewing,  of  Kittanning,  and  Rev.  J.  J.  Francis,  of 
Freeport,  members  of  the  co-operative  committee  of  the 
Presbytery,  a  plan  of  work  was  adopted,  as  follows:  The 
territory  v/as  first  districted,  and  from  two  to  three  churches- 
assigned  to  each  member  of  the  committee,  and  they  severally 
enjoined  to  effect,  if  possible,  an  organization  in  connection 
with  the  Woman's  Foreign  Missionary  Society  in  the  churches 
under  their  care,  and  to  have  general  oversight  of  these 
societies,  and  aid  them  in  every  possible  way  in  developing 
and  sustaining  an  interest  in  mission  work.  Six  societies  were 
organized  prior  to  this  time — Marion,  Kittanning,  Elder's 
Ridge,  Brady's  Bend,  Leechburg  and  Freeport.  Marion 
being  organized  in  October,  1871,  has  the  honor  of  being  the 
first  organization  in  the  Presbytery.  These  societies  fell  in  all 
the  more  heartily  with  the  general  movement  on  account  of 
a  prior  organization.  But  with  all  available  helps  the  work  of 
this  committee  was  somewhat  difficult,  as  there  were  few  land- 
marks to  serve  as  guides.  A  new  path  was  to  be  made,  and 
care  must  be  taken  not  to  depart  from  good  old  Presbyterian 
ways;  women  must  be  brought  out  of  their  tranquil,  irre- 
sponsible   position  in    regard   to  Foreign  Mission    work,  and 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  78 

assume  new  and  more  public  duties.  Many  timidly  shrank  at 
first  from  going  forward,  and  were  inclined  to  shake  off 
responsibility  b}^  quoting  Paul's  saying,  "  That  women  keep 
silence  in  the  cljurches."  In  view  of  these  things  the  pioneers 
had  to  move  softly,  thoughtfully  and  prayerfully,  and  study  to 
win  the  opposers  and  to  encourage  the  shrinking  and  timid 
ones  to  go  forward.  One  rule  was  carefully  obsei'ved  from 
the  first,  that  of  consulting  the  pastors  and  seeking  their 
advice  and  encouragement  This  committee  owes  much  of  its 
.success  in  the  work,  in  its  earlier  years,  to  the  ministers  of 
Kittanning  Presbytery  for  their  valuable  aid  in  holding  district 
conventions  in  different  parts  of  the  Presbytery,  and  thus 
awakening  a  more  general  interest  in  the  cause  of  missions. 
In  this  and  many  otiier  ways  we  have  had  their  "  God  bless 
you  "  from  they  very  beginning  of  our  work. 

At  tlie  close  of  our  first  year  we  were  able  to  report 
thirty-seven  auxiliaries  and  seven  mission  bands,  with  a  con- 
tribution of  $2,076.29.  It  has  been  with  jov  that  we  have 
closed  the  record  of  each  year  bringing  to  the  Master  of  the 
\-ineyard  his  $2,000.00,  and,  in  the  year  1877,  including  the 
centennial  offering,  lacking  but  $75.00  of  $3,000.00. 

It  has  been  said  that  the  earlier  years  of  a  society  are 
marked  by  many  experiences  similar  to  those  of  a  child — its 
beginnings  feeble,  its  steps  uncertain,  and  its  ignorance 
amusing.  So  we  have  found  it.  But  in  1879  ^"<^  1880,  we 
had  grown  into  a  family  of  forty-four  auxiliaries  and  thirteen 
mission  bands,  leaving  but  five  small  churches  unorganized, 
;md  they  withoui:  settled  pastors.  Some  feeble,  struggling 
churches  had  zeal  enough  stirred  up  to  organize  and  continue 
for  a  time,  but  discouragements  came  and  the  good  work  was 
allowed  to  cease. 

In  1880,  a  call  to  Rev.  T.  D.  Ewing,  of  Kittanning,  which 
transferred  him  to  the  Presidency  of  Parson's  College,  Iowa, 
took  from  us  our  mucli-ioved  President,  Mrs.  Ewing.  She  had 
most  faithfully  served  as  President  for   six  years.       She  had 

10 


74  HISTORY    OF    THE 


rare  tact  for  organization  and  general  management,  and  was 
most  admirably  qualified  with  manner  and  voice  to  preside  at 
popular  meetings,  and  commend  the  cause  to  the  general 
public.  But  our  loss  was  only  other's  gain,  as  all  her  zeal  and 
helpful  activity  in  missionary  work  was  but  transferred  to 
another  field.  It  was  written  of  her  by  an  eminent  minister, 
near  her  western  home,  after  her  death  on  September  12th, 
1884,  that  "  although  her  life  was  not  lived  out  to  the  full,  it 
was  lived  beautifully  and  well."  Mrs.  J.  J.  Boyd,  of  Slate 
Lick,  was  chosen  President  after  Mrs.  Ewing's  resignation, 
and  served  with  great  faithfulness  for  two  years,  when  failing 
strength  constrained  her  to  resign.  In  the  beginning  of  the 
work  the  position  of  an  officer  in  our  association  was  full  of 
unfamiliar  duties,  and,  at  times,  peculiarly  trying,  and  the  will- 
ing and  capable  official  was  more  difficult  to  find  than  now, 
after  the  training  of  years  and  the  growth  of  a  sentiment 
favorable  to  the  movement.  The  officers  were  at  first  elected 
without  a  limit  to  the  time  of  service,  and  that  without  any  of 
those  little  jealousies  that  are  apt  to  attend  their  selection 
where  such  places  come  to  be  looked  upon  as  positions  of 
honorable  distinction  and  their  duties  are  better  known  and 
more  narrowly  defined.  It  was  proposed  at  the  annual  meet- 
ing in  Indiana  in  October,  1883,  that  the  term  of  serving  in 
office  be  limited  to  a  period  of  three  years,  and,  in  accordance 
with  this  decision  Mrs.  Alice  A.  Magill  accepted  the  office  of 
President,  to  which  she  had  been  unanimously  chosen.  A 
committee  was  also  appointed  at  this  meeting  to  make  such  a 
revision  of  the  constitution  as  would  bring  the  society  more  into 
harmony  with  the  work  at  large,  and  present  it  for  adoption 
at  the  next  meeting  in  June,  1884.  At  the  delightful  reunion 
held  in  Apollo,  June  17th,  1884,  where  nearly  all  the  workers 
of  the  first  decade  were  gathered,  the  revised  constitution  was 
submitted,  and  after  some  discussion  adopted.  It  called  for 
an  enlarged  board  of  officers,  four  Vice  Presidents  instead  of 
one,  and  in  accordance  with  this  requirement,  the  following 
persons  were  elected    to   serve  for   three   years:     Mrs.  S.  W. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  75 

Miller,  Saltsburg;  Mrs.  J.  J.  Boyd,  Slate  Lick;  Mrs.  Eva  G. 
Thompson,  Marion;  Mrs.  E.  R.  Dain,  Freeport.  Thret- 
Secretaries  were  also  required  instead  of  one,  and  the  follow- 
ing were  elected:  Foreign  Corresponding  Secretary,  Miss  M. 
B.  Irwin,  Ebenezer;  Home  Corresponding  Secretary,  Mrs.  M. 
J.  Elder,  Elder's  Ridge:  Presbyterial  Secretary,  Mrs.  T.  B. 
Elder,  Elder's  Ridge.  Mrs.  Dr.  Hall  handed  in  her  resigna- 
tion as  Treasurer,  and  Mrs.  M.  A.  Sutton,  of  Indiana,  was 
chosen,  and  most  faithfully  performs  the  duties  of  that  office. 

In  less  than  one  year  from  this  time  the  President's  chair 
was  again  left  vacant  by  the  removal  of  Rev.  H.  Magill  and 
wife  to  a  western  field  of  labor.  Mrs.  Magill  had  been  one 
of  our  most  earnest  workers  for  both  Home  and  Foreign 
Missions  for  eleven  years,  and  her  loss  was  much  felt, 
especially  in  the  churches  left  vacant  by  her  husband's 
removal.  Mrs.  S.  W.  Miller,  first  Vice  President,  filled  the 
vacancy  and  successfully  carried  the  work  forward  until  the 
close  of  the  thirteenth  year,  June  17,  1887.  At  this  time  the 
following  officers  were  elected,  viz:  President,  Mrs.  Samuel 
Crawford,  Kittanning.  Vice-Presidents.  Mrs.  C.  E.  Barr, 
Indiana;  Mrs.  T.  M.  Thompson,  Freeport;  Mrs.  D.  J.  Irwin, 
Ebenezer;  Mrs.  A.  T.  Bell,  Kellysburg.  Secretaries:  Home 
Corresponding,  Mrs.  T.  C.  Watson,  Elder's  Ridge;  Foreign 
Corresponding,  Miss  M.  B.  Irwin,  Ebenezer;  Presbyterial  Sec- 
retary, Mrs.  T.  B.  Elder,  Elder's  Ridge.  Treasure)-,  Mrs.  M. 
A.  Sutton,  Indiana. 

The  following  table  will  show  the  several  places  of  holding 
the  annual  meetings  and  the  total  contributions  for  each  year : 

Date.  Place  of  Mcotint;-.  Con(nbuti<)ns. 

IS?.*) Indiana $  2,076  29 

1876 Freeport 2,715  00 

1877 Saltsburg 2,94a  dO 

1878 Freeport 2,587  00 

1879 Indiana 2,662  00 

1880 Slate  Lick 2,589  00 

1881 Elder's  Ridge 2,597  70 

1883 Kittanning 2,369  20 

1883 Indiana 2,:373  96 

1884 Apollo 2,531  00 

1885 Parker  Citv 2,454  87 

1886 Elderton  ...". , 2,671   15 

1887 Leechburg 2,477  41 

Total $33,052  14 


76  HISTORY    OK    aHK 


The  annual  meetings  have  been  held  in  different  parts  of 
the  Presbytery,  and  since  1881,  the  date  of  the  Home  Mission 
organization,  have  been  at  the  same  time  and  place.  At  these 
meetings  the  story  of  missionar}'  work  has  been  frequently 
told  by  those  who  have  "  touched  it  with  their  owm  hands  " 
on  both  home  and  foreign  fields,  among  whom  have  been  Dr. 
Hunter  Corbett,  Rev.  T.  F.  Wallace,  Dr.  W.  F.  Johnson  and 
wife,  Drs.  Coan  and  Wherry,  Rev.  S.  G.  Wilson,  Mrs.  Dr. 
Happer,  and  by  the  secretaries  of  the  Foreign  Board,  Drs. 
Ellinwood  and  Gillespie.  The  home  field  has  been  repre- 
sented by  Miss  Wray,  of  Utah;  Miss  Robertson,  of  Indian 
Territorv,  and  by  the  secretarv  of  the  Board,  Dr.  W.  C. 
Roberts.  The  claims  of  the  Freedmen  have  been  loyally 
urged  bv  Dr.  Allen  and  Iiis  now  sainted  wife,  Mrs.  Mary 
Allen,  and  later  by  Dr.  li.  T.  McClelland,  of  the  Western 
Theological  Seminary.  In  addition  to  thus  providing,  as  a 
stimulus  to  effort,  contact  with  the  zeal  and  fervor  of  active 
laborers  in  the  field,  it  has  been  our  constant  aim  to  secure  a 
regular  supph'  of  missionary  intelligence  among  our  member- 
ship, by  as  wide  a  circulation  as  possible  of  the  monthly 
magazines  printed  by  our  board.  Of  these  there  are  in  circu- 
lation 216  copies  of  "Woman's  Work,"  and  of  "Children's 
Work,"  151  copies. 

The  present  roll  of  membership  contains  1,451  names,  but 
a  part  of  our  "  unsolved  problem  "  is  how  to  reach  the  more 
than  2,000  women,  whose  names  are  on  the  rolls  of  the 
churches  of  Kittanning  Presb3'tery,  who  as  3et  have  neither 
"  part  nor  lot "  in  this  organized  work. 

We  turn  now  to  look  briefl}'  at  some  of  the  work  taken 
up  b}'  this  Presbyterial  society.  Its  contributions  have  found 
their  way  into  almost  every  mission  field  in  the  world.  Kit- 
tanning  auxiliar\'  took  up  the  support  of  Mrs.  W.  F.  Johnson 
in  1875  ^^  Allahabad,  India,  and  continued  it  until  her  return 
to  America  in  1885.  Since  then  it  has  been  transferred  to 
Mrs.  J.  H.Judson,  China.  Apollo,  Leechburg  and  Freeport, 
took  as  their  missionary,  in  the  same  year,  Mrs.  Vandyke,  of 


T-RESBA'TERY    OF    KITTANNING.  "77 


Siam.  Miss  Wherry,  we  claim  in  a  special  manner,  not  only 
supported  by  our  Presbyterial  Society,  but  going  out  from  us 
Avith  her  brother,  Rev.  E.  M.  Wherry,  and  his  wife,  on  their 
return  to  India  in  the  fall  of  1879.  ^^^  work  had  been 
associated  with  that  of  her  brother  until  in  1884  she  was 
transferred  to  the  girPs  school  at  Dehra.  A  glance  at  the 
statistical  reports  shows  contributions  to  schools  and  scholar- 
ships in  China,  India,  Siam,  Persia,  Syria,  Africa,  Japan, 
Mexico  and  South  America.  The  record  also  shows  the 
"  little  ones  "  helping  to  launch  Rev.  E.  P.  Dunlap's  mission- 
ary boat,  aiding  in  the  printing  press  for  the  Laos  and  the 
Missionar}'  Home  at  Woodstock. 

Saltsburg  was  organized  in  1873,  and  the  band  there  is 
recorded  as  the  first  mission  band  in  the  Presbytery.  For 
thirteen  years  they  have  deposited  their  pennies  and  busied 
their  fingers  in  fanc}''  work  for  fairs,  and  tuned  their  voices  for 
concerts,  that  they  might  swell  the  amount  weekl}-  dropped 
into  their  "  mite  "  and  "  birthday  "  boxes.  The  amount  given 
from  their  "  mite  boxes  "  alone  to  Foreign  Missions  is  $458.85. 
while  their  "  birthday  boxes "  gather  up  their  contributions 
for  the  Home  Mission  fund.  Apollo  has  its  "  Hopeful "  and 
"  Faithful  "  workers,  that  come  to  the  front  each  year  with 
their  $40.  Freeport's  young  ladies'  branch  contribute  their 
$50  for  Zenana  work,  and  the  "  Do  What  We  Can  "  band,  $40 
for  their  scholarship  in  Tungchow;  Jacksonville,  their  $50  for 
a  scholarship  in  Beirut  Seminary.  Then  there  is  the  "Don- 
aldson Band,"  of  Elder's  Ridge;  the  "King's  Gardeners,"  of 
Homer  City;  "Band  of  Mechanicsburg "  and  Harmony's 
■"  Wilhng  Workers;"  the  Sabbath  School  Band  of  West 
Lebanon;  and  the  "  Fruit  Buds  "  of  Slate  Lick. 

Let  us  thank  God,  that  when  our  hands  shall  no  longer 
be  able  to  carry  on  the  work  of  this  missionary  association,  a 
corps  of  thoroughly  trained  Christian  workers  will  be  ready 
to  take  our  places,  and  act  with  a  power  we  have  never 
known. 


78  HISTORY    OF    THE 


Having  endeavored  briefly  to  give  the  prominent  features 
of  these  thirteen  year's  work,  there  comes  to  us  a  feeling  of 
dissatisfaction  in  view  of  the  meagre  details  given  of  so  great 
a  work.  In  a  review  like  this,  much  of  its  history  lies  hidden^, 
much  of  it  is  too  sacred  to  touch,  much  of  it  is  too  lofty  to 
reach. 

The  following  is  a  list  of  all  the  organizations  from  the 
beginning  of  the  work,  with  the  date  of  their  organization  as 
far  as  known: 

Appleby  Manor,  December,  1874;  Apollo,  June,  1874:  Bands, 
"  Hopeful,"  "  Faithful  Workers";  Bethel,  July,  1874;  Bethesda^ 
May,  1886;  Boiling  Spring,  October,  1874;  Brady's  Bend,  March, 
1873:  Band,  "  Loring "  ;  Centre,  October,  1874;  Cherry  Run, 
October,  1874;  Cherry  Tree,  1885;  Clarksburg,  July,  1874; 
Clinton,  July,  1874;  Concord,  August,  1874;  Crooked  Creek, 
December,  1874;  Currie's  Run,  March,  1875;  Ebenezer,  January, 
1874;  Elder's  Ridge,  January,  1873:  Band,  "Donaldson"; 
Elderton,  October,  1874;  Freeport,  April,  1874:  Band,  "Do 
What  We  Can";  Gilgal,  October,  1874;  Glade  Run, June,  1874; 
Harmony,  September,  1874:   Band,  "  Willing   Workers";  Homer 

City, ?:  Band,  "King's  Gardeners";  Indiana,  August,  1874; 

facksonville,  August,  1874:  Band,  "  Sabbath  School";  Kittanning, 
November,  1873;  Leechburg,  January,  1884;  Mahoning,  August, 
1874;    Marion,    October,    1871;    Mechanicsburg,    August,    1874: 

Band,    "Mission";    Midway, ?;    Middle    Creek,    November, 

1874;    Mount     Pleasant,  ?;    Parker    City,    December,  1874; 

Rayne,    January,    1875;    Plumville,  ?;    Rockbridge,   ?; 

Rural  Valley,  October,  1874;  Saltsbur^,  Tune,  1874:  Band, 
"Little    Sunbeams";    Slate    Lick,    October,   1874:    Band,  "Fruit 

Buds";  Srader's   Grove,  July,    1874;  Tunnelton,   ?;    Union, 

December,  1874;  Washington,  August,  1874;  West  Glade  Run^ 
September,  1874;  West  Lebanon,  May,  1874:  Band,  "Sabbath 
School";  Worthington,  May,  1874. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  79 


A    CENTENARY    DISCOURSE    OF    GOSPEL    WORK 
AND  WORKERS  IN  THE  BOUNDS  OF  KIT- 
TANNING   PRESBYTERY,  DELIVERED 
AT    PARKER,   DEC.   21,   i  887. 


rrTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY    REV.    A.    DONALDSON,    D.    D. 

"  Remember  the  days  of  old,  consider  the  years  of  many  gen- 
erations; ask  thy  father  and  he  will  show  thee,  thy  elders,  and  they 
will  tell  thee.""— Deut.  32:  7. 

A  life  covering  four-fifths  of  the  century  under  review, 
and  a  personal  knowledge  of  all  the  laborers  in  the  present 
boundaries  of  Kittanning  Presbytery,  are  the  sole  induce- 
ments to  attempt  the  service  required  for  this  day. 

The  book  of  God's  unfolding  providence,  like  the  cloud}^ 
pillar,  all  darkness  to  the  Egyptians  in  its  rear,  shines  benignly 
on  the  Israelites  in  front.  So  his  providential  dealings  with 
his  people  can  be  comprehended  only  by  those  looking  back 
upon  them.  "  God  has  made  his  wonderful  works  to  be 
remembered."  Hence  the  Saviour's  declaration,"  "  What  1 
do  thou  knowest  not  now,  but  thou  shalt  know  hereafter," 
and  the  historical  record,  "  These  things  understood  not  his 
disciples  at  the  first;  but  when  Jesus  was  glorified  then 
remembered  they  that  these  things  were  written  of  him  and 
that  they  had  done  these  things  unto  him." 

The  aim  of  this  discourse  is  simply  to  put  on  record  things 
proper  to  be  "  remembered "  and  handed  down  for  "  many 
generations  "  respecting  our  field,  our  work  and  our  workers. 


80  HISTORY    OF    THR 

The  comfort  and  even  success  of  ministerial  labor  dependb 
much  on  the  population  of  any  territory.  Our  population  is 
mostly  of  Scotch  Irish  descent.  Some,  indeed,  are  fresh  from 
the  sod  of  the  Emerald  Isle  and  a  few  from  the  banks  and 
braes  of  Scotland.  To  all  these  Presbyterianism,  in  any  of 
its  families,  is  congenial,  and  labor  among  them  is  generally  as 
pleasant  as  anywhere  else  in  this  fallen  world.  But  in  and 
near  the  Crooked  creek  valley  lying  in  Armstrong  county,  it 
is  largely  of  German  origin  and  inclines  to  the  Lutheran  and 
German  Reformed  churches,  and,  to  their  credit  it  should  be 
remarked,  that  during  the  last  half  century  they  have  culti- 
vated their  field  with  growing  success  and  find  that  Germans, 
molting  into  English  habits  of  life,  are  in  many  respects  tracta- 
ble and  are  easily  induced  to  take  a  leading  part  in  social 
religious  exercises. 

OUR    FIELD. 

Labor  was  commenced  in  it  as  early  as  1787,  the  year 
before  the  General  x\ssembly  was  organized.  But  the  first 
pastor  in  it  was  Rev.  Joseph  W.  Henderson  settled  in  1799 
over  Ebenezer  and  Bethel  churches.  Slate  Lick  and  Union 
were  organized  in  1799;  at  least  ministerial  labor  began  there 
as  early  as  that  time.  But  Rev.  John  Boyd,  settled  in  1802, 
was  the  first  pastor.  These  laborers  with  all  that  served 
Harmonv,  Indiana,  Gilgal,  Glade  Run,  Kittanning,  Saltsburg, 
Apollo  and  Crooked  Creek,  being  members  of  Redstone 
Presbyterv,  had  a  field  immensely  large,  being  liable  to  be 
sent  as  supplies  to  any  part  of  its  original  territory.  It 
narrowed  down,  however,  at  the  organization  of  Ohio,  Hart- 
ford and  Allegheny  Presbyteries,  as  they  were  successively 
formed.  In  1830,  when  Blairsville  was  organized,  any  part 
of  its  territory  might  claim  their  labors  as  supplies  until 
Clarion  Presbytery  took  the  portion  north  of  the  Red  Bank 
creek,  and  then  all  south  of  this  continued  to  be  their  field 
till  1857,  when  Saltsburg  Presbytery  was  organized.  For 
fourteen  vears  afterward  the  field  was  about  as  large  as  at 
present.     At  the  reconstruction  of  church  courts  in  1870  our 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  81 


boundaries  were  so  changed  as  to  include  all  Armstrong- 
county  and  Indiana  county  north  of  the  Black  Lick,  and  the 
Presbyterial  name  was  changed  to  Kittanning.  The  territory 
is  not  likely  to  be  further  curtailed.  Thus  our  territory  has 
been  included  in  five  Presbyteries  and  one  of  them  under  two 
names,  also  it  has  been  amenable  to  the  Synods  of  Pittsburgh, 
Erie  and  Pennsylvania.  Our  Presbyteries  have  all  been 
unusually  harmonious,  free  from  everything  like  clique  or 
clan.  So,  too,  was  the  Synod  of  Erie,  electing  its  first  four 
moderators  by  acclaim.  What  it  will  be  since  two  whole 
States  are  included  remains  to  be  more  fully  seen. 

CHANGING    ASPECTS    OF    THE    WHOLE    COUNTRY. 

Only  a  quarter  of  a  century  had  elapsed  under  the  Con- 
stitution and  our  General  Assembly,  when  the  nation  was 
involved  in  a  war  with  the  mother  country  for  more  than  two 
years,  and  by  its  success  was  relieved  from  the  impressments 
of  our  citizens  into  her  navy  and  other  associated  troubles. 
To  this  day  childhood's  memory  recalls  many  incidents  of 
that  war. 

Little  more  than  half  a  century  had  passed,  when  the 
country  was  involved  in  war  with  Mexico,  because  the  "  lone 
star  "  state  had  been  received  into  our  Union.  By  the  success 
of  this  war  we  gained  large  accession  of  territory.  Severe 
as  these  conflicts  were  they  were  mere  skirmishes  in  compari- 
son with  what  awaited  us  between  the  third  and  fourth 
quarters  of  the  century. 

The  storm  of  civil  war  had  been  brewing  for  nearly  half  a 
century.  The  country,  boastfully  called  "  the  land  of  the  free 
and  the  home  of  the  brave,"  was  largely  wrapped  up  in 
slavery.  About  this  institution  people  were  more  and  more 
divided  in  sentiment.  Some,  regarding  it  as  the  sum  of  all 
villanies,  sought  immediate  and  unconditional  emancipation, 
glorying  in  the  name  of  abolitionists.  Some  regarding  it 
as  a  great  and  growing  evil  but  so  intertwined  with  our  civil 
affairs  that  it  could  not  be  unceremoniously  swept  awav. 
11 


82  HISTORY    OF    THE 


They  prayed  and  believed  that  God,  in  his  righteous  provi- 
dence, would  develop  some  way  of  bringing  it  to  an  everlast- 
ing end,  not  at  all  foreseeing  that  "  by  terrible  things  in 
righteousness  God  would  answer  them."  They  called  them- 
selves anti-slavery  men.  But  most  of  those  personally 
involved  in  it  claimed  that  it  was  a  righteous  and  even  benev- 
olent institution,  defended  it  by  Scripture,  sought  its  perpetua- 
tion and  even  extension  over  free  territory.  Incurring  oppo- 
sition in  various  ways  they  were  so  infuriated  as  to  fire  on 
Ft.  Sumter. 

This  quickly  kindled  the  blaze  of  civil  war.  Those  fight- 
ing for  the  unbroken  Union,  after  four  years  of  furious  con- 
flict, and  the  loss  of  a  million  men,  gained  their  object,  and 
God  had  wiped  the  blot  of  slavery  from  our  glorious 
escutcheon. 

Indian  wars  had  been  in  progress  most  of  the  time. 
Frequently  they  arose  from  injustice  on  the  part  of  our  citi- 
zens, and  their  final  adjustment  remains  an  unsettled  problem. 
Still,  on  account  of  them  there  is  reason  to  "  tremble  when 
we  remember  that  God  is  just." 

INTEMPERANCE. 

As  has  been  intimated,  a  million  men  by  a  glorious  death 
secured  the  success  of  the  civil  war,  but  millions  on  millions 
will  soon  fall  in  ignomin}^  and  woe  if  the  recent  rate  of 
increasing  intemperance  keeps  on  its  way.  Those  engaged 
in  the  liquor  traffic,  with  enormous  profits,  chiefly  foreigners, 
too  lazy  to  gain  an  honorable  livelihood,  are  becoming  intoler- 
ably bold  in  demanding  that  restraints  on  the  traffic  should  be 
removed  and  that  half  of  the  Lord's  day  shall  be  given  over 
to  their  unholy  gains.  This,  like  the  firing  upon  Ft.  Sumter, 
arouses  considerate  men  everywhere,  and  especially  the 
unwearied  efforts  of  the  glorious  W.  C.  T.  U.  to  put  it  under 
the  ban  of  prohibition  as  quickly  and  as  thoroughly  as  it  can 
be  done.  May  God's  efficacious  grace  soon  cause  victory  to 
perch  upon  their  banner. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  88 

ECCLESIASTICAL    DIVISION. 

Wars  and  commotions  outside  the  church  are  less  unseemly 
than  when  they  occur  within  its  pale.  Native  depravity,  total 
depravity,  and  divine  grace  necessary  to  overcome  it,  with  other 
allied  topics,  about  the  year  1830  became  subjects  of  humiliating 
discussion  in  all  our  church  courts  for  seven  years  and  then 
issued  in  the  division  of  our  church  for  thirty-two  additional 
years.  No  doubt  the  eye  of  God  detected  faults  on  both  sides, 
but  the  analogy  of  faith  during  these  years  brought  the  parties 
back  to  harmony  again  and  the  Schools  were  reunited  in 
1869,  since  which  time  the  churches  have  enjoyed  uninter- 
rupted peace  and  prosperity.  Was  truth  sacrificed  in  the 
case? 

Other  denominations  sometimes  represent  our  church  as 
gradually  receding  from  its  Calvinism,  Augustinianism,  or 
Paulism^  if  they  would  use  the  best  term.  But  if  any  attempt 
were  made  to  vote  down  a  single  article  of  our  faith  the  mass  of 
the  church  would  rise  in  uncompromising  opposition  to  it.  The 
labored  statements  of  Drs.  Palmer,  Dabney  &  Co.  in  the 
endeavor  to  prove  that  we  have  forsaken  ancient  Presbyterian 
faith  while  the  southern  church  retains  it  inviolate,  are  only 
a  round-a-bout  way  of  saying,  "  Stand  by  th^^self.  Come  not 
near  me  for  I  am  holier  than  thou."  The  best  men  in  their 
own  church  regard  the  whole  argument  as  perfect  "  bosh." 

THE    PRESBYTERIAL    WORKERS. 

Seventeen  ministers  were  included  in  the  organization. 
Painter,  Kirkpatrick,  Colledge,  McClung,  Donaldson,  Graves, 
Caruthers,  Stark,  Woodend,  Morton,  McElwain,  Leason, 
Mills,  Moore,  Bollman,  Orr  and  Morgan.  Twenty-eight 
more  were  added  before  the  name  was  changed  and  sixty-two 
have  been  added  to  it  since  as  the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning. 
Thus  the  whole  number  enrolled  has  been  one  hundred  and 
seven.  The  whole  number  licensed  by  Presbytery  is  seventy- 
four.     Fortv-seven  have  been  ordained  also. 


84  iiisrouv  OF  the 


CLERKS    OK    PRESBYTERY. 

Recording  clerks  are  chosen  semi-annually  with  the  mod- 
erator and  have  been  too  numerous  for  record  here.  In  1877 
Presbytery  established  a  "  permanent"  clerkship,  and  Rev.  T. 
D.  Ewing  was  chosen  to  fill  it.  He  was  succeeded  in  1880 
by  Rev.  John  Gourley,  and  he  again  in  1883  by  Rev.  A.  T. 
Hell,  who  is  in  the  office  still  and  likely  to  hold  it  for  a  long 
lime.  He  is  qualified  for  it  both  by  his  acquaintance  with 
business  rules  and  his  well  known  taciturnity.  His  record 
would  get  sadly  confused  if  he  were  prompted  to  rise  every 
few  minutes  and  adjust  the  switch  to  prevent  Presbytery 
from  running  off'  the  track,  or  to  speak  three  or  four  times  on 
one  motion. 

The  Stated  Clerk  has  always  been  a  permanent  officer  of 
Presbytery.  Rev.  W.  W.  Woodend  filled  the  office  from 
1857  till  1865;  Rev.  D.  W.  Townsend  from  1865  till  1867; 
Rev.  G.  W.  Mechlin  from  1867  till  1872;  Rev.  J.J.  Francis 
from  1872  till  1879,  and  Rev.  D.  H.  Sloan  from  1879  until 
the  present  time.  To  all  these  brethren  Presbytery  feels 
indebted  for  their  accuracy  and  faithfulness. 

When  our  last  Stated  Clerk  leaving  Presbytery  resigned 
his  office  and  our  records  were  under  review  in  Synod,  the 
reviewer  expressed  his  sympathy  with  the  Presbytery  of  Kit- 
tanning  in  losing  "  the  best  Stated  Clerk  in  the  world."  We 
felt  sad  to  lose  such  accuracy  and  embellishment  as  he  had 
shown.  When  his  successor.  Rev.  D.  H.  Sloan,  was  elected 
many  feared  a  falling  off.  But  all  were  greatly  gratified  with 
records  embellished  as  perfectly  as  before,  and  also  by  a  com- 
plete docket  of  business  for  a  coming  meeting  of  Presbytery, 
sent  a  month  in  advance  to  each  member,  and  a  perfect  index 
of  all  Prt-sbylerial  transactions  in  a  separate  book. 

CONGREGATIONS. 

Our  Presbytery  at  its  origin  contained  thirty-seven  con- 
gregations and  since  then  has  organized  thirteen,  Clarksburg, 
Rethesda  and  Jacksonville  in  1857,  Marion  and  Mahoning  in 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KlTTANNfNG.  8S 

.i860,  Plumville  in  1864,  Rockbridge  in  1869,  Homer  in  1870, 
Srader's  Grove  in  187 1,  Atwood  in  1874,  Midway  in  1875, 
Tunnelton  in  1879,  ^^^  Kittanning  2d  in  1884.  Thus  fifty 
are  now  on  our  roll.  Is  Presbytery  free  from  guilt  in  allow- 
ing some  of  them  to  remain  so  long  vacant?  Supplies  are 
regularly  sent  by  Presbytery  and  inquiries  made  as  to  their 
ofeneral   condition. 

STYI.E    OF    SERMONIZING. 

The  seventeenth  century  style  of  preaching  prevailed  at 
the  beginning  of  the  period  under  review.  Subjects  were 
divided  and  sub-divided  and  separately  discussed.  This 
method  greatly  aided  the  memory  of  the  preacher,  (for  read- 
ing sermons  was  not  then  in  vogue)  and  of  the  people  in  hear- 
ing and  retaining  the  discourse  for  purposes  of  meditation. 
Expository  preaching  also  prevailed  among  many.  A  group 
of  related  verses  was  taken  and  analyzed,  the  chief  thought 
brought  to  the  front  and  subordinate  ones  discussed  in  due 
order.  This  method  was  greatly  helpful  to  Bible  students 
and  taught  them  how  to  analyze  for  themselves  the  word  of 
■God.  Later  still  it  was  common  to  divide  every  subject  into 
three  parts,  and  many  preachers  restricted  themselves  to  such 
texts  as  would  in  any  way  allow  of  this  division.  Now  the 
growing  custom  is  to  bring  out  the  leading  thoughts  of  a 
passage  and  make  it  the  main  subject  of  discourse  and  only 
notice  other  parts  as  may  be  subordinated  to  this.  A  very 
simple  style  of  language,  or,  as  Paul  expresses  it,  "  great 
plainness  of  speech "  is  used.  Thus  our  young  ministers 
readily  gain  the  popular  ear  and  heart  and  "  the  common 
people  hear  them  gladly;"  and  the  competence  of  our  profes- 
sors becomes  generally  known  and  admired.  In  all  these 
methods  the  aim  has  not  been  to  persuade  men  to  become 
Christians,  but  simply  to  take  away  the  stone  from  the  cave 
where  Lazarus  lies  in  the  sleep  of  death,  and  by  pleading, 
wrestling  prayer  to  secure  the  intervention  of  Him  who  is 
"  the    resurrection    and    the    life,"    with    the   Almighty    call, 


SS'  HISTORY    OF    THE 


"  Lazarus  come  forth."  And  then  the  great  work  remaining: 
for  us  13  skillfully  and  thoroughly  to  "  loose  him  and  let  him. 
go  "  in  all  the  activities  of  Christian  life. 

MISSIONARY    WORK 

Blessed  be  God,  in  one  particular  he  has  granted  us  a: 
little  reviving.  The  field  of  missionary  operations  is  coming 
into  prominence.  Young  men  and  maidens  in  growings 
cheering  numbers  ofTer  themselves  as  candidates  for  the 
foreign  field.  "  Woman's  Work  for  Woman  "  also  assumes 
grand  dimensions.  But  this  inviting  department  of  the  subject 
will  be  presented  by  a  smoother  pen,  a  lady's  pen,  and  needs- 
no  further  discussion  here. 

THE    FATHERS,    WHERE    ARE    THEY? 

Our  faith  replies,  among  "  the  spirits  of  just  men  made 
perfect^"  "forever  with  the  Lord."     Our  ardent  feeling  adds: 

"  With  us  their  names  shall  live, 

Through  life's  succeeding  years. 
Embalmed  with  all  our  hearts  can  give, 
Our  praises  and  our  tears," 

Here  allow  brief  reminiscences  of  the  character  of  those 
who  labored  on  our  territory  and  left  their  bodies  with  us,  and 
also  of  a  few  who  afterwards  did  brief  service  outside  our 
borders.  As  dates  and  changes  in  their  pastorates  will  be 
given  in  congregational  histories  they  may  be  omitted  here. 

Rev.  Joseph  W.  Henderson,  of  Bethel,  whose  life  has  been 
briefly  recorded  by  another  writer,  is  simply  remembered  as  a 
stately,  polished  godly  man.  He  is  said  to  have  been  a  per- 
fectly punctual  man,  an  accectable  preacher,  a  faithful  pastor, 
and  the  first,  in  all  this  region,  to  advocate  total  abstinence 
from  intoxicating  drink.  When  from  debility  he  resigned  his 
charge  and  it  became  dependent  on  supplies,  a  wag  suggested 
"  If  you  bring  Mr.  Henderson's  old  overcoat  and  hang  it  up 
in  front  of  the  pulpit  for  the  congregation  to  look  at,  it  will 


PHESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  ^7 

do  them  more  good  than  another  man's  preaching."  His 
influence  was  perpetuated  by  nine  daughters,  who  diffused 
refinement  and  intelligence  wherever  they  went,  Mrs.  Lint- 
rner,  the  youngest,  now  over  eighty  years,  lives  in  Blairsville, 
Pa. 

Rev.  John  Reed,  of  Indiana,  Pa.,  was  a  very  rapid  speaker 
^nd  monotonous  in  delivery,  leaving  the  impression  on 
■occasional  hearers  that  he  did  not  feel  the  truths  he  uttered, 
"but  private  intercourse  with  him  while  assisting  in  communion 
service  effaced  this  impression  entirely.  For  twenty  years  he 
had  served  a  congregation,  one  half  of  his  time  at  a  distance 
of  fifteen  miles  from  home.  When  he  resigned  this  his  health 
"began  to  fail  from  inactive  habits,  and  in  two  years  his  earthly 
labors  were  at  an  end. 

Rev.  Robert  Johnston,  of  Bethel,  was  a  lineal  descendent 
of  Oliver  Cromwell  and  described  as  one  who  never  feared 
the  face  of  man.  He  was  a  dauntless,  earnest  preacher  and 
very  successful  in  early  years.  Feeling  the  infirmities  of  age 
coming  on,  he  resigned  his  charge  and  lived  with  his  son  for 
a  while  in  Indiana  and  then  at  New  Castle,  Pa.  There,  at 
nearly  eighty-seven  years  of  age,  he  entered  the  rest  that 
•"  remaineth  for  the  people  of  God." 

Rev.  David  Lewis,  of  Ebenezer,  was  a  warm-hearted 
Welshman.  In  point  of  eloquence  and  hol}'^  unction  he  sur- 
passed all  our  other  members  and  was  held  in  universal  esteem. 
None  that  ever  heard  him  could  forget  him.  He  felt  great 
satisfaction  in  doing  the  work  of  the  Lord.  On  one  Sabbath 
he  had  preached  with  unwonted  freedom,  power  and  tender- 
ness, both  in  the  morning  and  evening.  Attempting  to  kindle 
his  fire  on  Monday  morning  he  felt  ill,  lay  down  on  a  sofa  and 
in  a  few  minutes  "  was  not,  for  God  took  him."  "  Many  die 
as  sudden,  few  as  safe." 

Rev.  Watson  Hughes,  of  Saltsburg,  Pa.,  who  was  the  son 
of  a  godl}^  minister  and  had  three  ministerial  brothers  of  dis- 
tinction, gained  a  high  place  in  the  estimation  of  all  that  knew 


88  HISTORY'    OF    THti 

him,  and  especially  among  his  own  favored  people.  He  was 
peculiarly  courteous  and  kind  to  ministers  entering  on  their 
work.  From  a  failure  of  voice  he  resigned  his  charge  in 
middle  life.  When  a  successor  took  charge  of  the  church,  he 
removed  from  its  bounds  in  order  that  the  affections  of  the 
congregation  might  have  a  better  opportunity  to  concentrate 
on  their  new  pastor.  His  voice  improving  he  assum.ed  another 
charge,  but  soon  gave  it  up  for  the  same  reason  as  in  the 
former  case.  Removing  to  Pittsburg,  as  a  retired  minister,  in 
the  act  of  winding  up  his  time  piece  his  own  time  suddenly 
ended.  "  Let  me  die  the  death  of  the  righteous  and  let  my  last 
end  be  like  his." 

In  the  portion  of  territory  added  to  our  Presbytery  in 
1870,  Rev.  John  Redick,  of  Slate  Lick,  held  a  high  place  in 
the  esteem  both  of  his  own  congregations  and  the  entire 
Presbytery  of  (old)  Allegheny  of  which  he  was  a  member. 
He  stood  fair  as  a  preacher  but  was  chiefly  famed  as  a  kind, 
faithful  pastor.  But  as  memorial  exercises,  an  account  of 
which  is  to  be  published,  were  held  at  Slate  Lick  on  the  last 
days  of  August,  this  year,  in  which  his  characteristics  were 
brought  to  remembrance  by  those  who  knew  him  intimately, 
further  notice  now  is  unnecessary. 

Rev.  W'm.  F.  Kean,  of  Freeport,  Pa.,  was  zealous  and 
fervent  as  a  preacher,  cordial  in  greeting  his  friends,  and 
trained  and  retained  the  esteem  of  all  who  knew  him.  For 
reasons  not  meeting  the  approbation  of  all  his  brethren,  he 
resigned  this  charge  and  took  another  in  an  adjoining  Presby- 
tery, In  order  that  they  might  obtain  a  younger  pastor,  he 
resigned  it  also  and  retired  to  Sewickley  as  the  "  Saints  Rest." 
Not  indeed  that  he  might  sperrd  an  inactive  life,  for  he  soon 
set  out  for  a  tour  of  visitation  among  our  foreign  missionaries 
including  his  own  nephew,  Rev.  T.  F.  Wallace  in  Mexico. 
But  on  our  Pacific  coast  God's  awful  hand  stopped  the  current 
of  his  life.     "  In  that  very  day  his  thoughts  perish." 

Along  with  others  west  of  the  Allegheny  river,  Rev. 
Alex.  S.  Thompson,  of  Worthington,  Pa.,  ma}^  be  mentioned. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  89 

He  had  a  faultless  physical  frame,  a  well  balanced  mind,  and 
a  warm  brotherly  heart.  As  a  preacher  he  was  earnest, 
laborious,  faithful.  As  a  pastor  the  care  of  the  churches 
pressed  constantly  upon  his  heart,  nor  did  he  fail  to  gain  their 
entire  confidence  and  affection.  As  a  Presbyter,  though  an 
infrequent  speaker,  he  showed  a  desire  that  all  things  should 
be  done  in  a  proper  manner.  What  an  awful  stroke  came 
upon  his  people,  his  family  and  his  brethren,  when  they  heard 
that  he  was  found  cold  in  death  between  his  stable  and  his 
house !  "  Even  so.  Father,  for  so  it  seemed  good  in  Thy  sight." 

Rev.  Joseph  Painter,  D.  D.,  of  Kittanning,  Pa.,  had  a  good 
mind,  was  a  good  scholar  and  a  good,  though  unassuming, 
preacher.  He  took  charge  of  this  congregation  when  it  was 
in  a  very  low  condition.  By  extreme  difficulty  in  hearing  he 
was  precluded  from  many  kinds  of  pastoral  work.  He  highly 
appreciated  the  corrtpanionship  of  cultivated  minds  and 
expressed  sympathy  for  his  brethren  whose  situation  did  not 
allow  them  to  enjoy  it.  As  onl}'  part  of  his  ministerial  labors 
were  at  first  taken  by  this  congregation,  though  traveling 
was  very  difficult,  he  served  other  congregations,  eight  and 
then  twelve  miles  distant.  When  he  was  debilitated  by  age, 
the  congregation  of  Kittanning  gained  great  credit  by 
retaining  him  in  the  charge  and  securing  a  co-pastor,  while 
his  salary  was  running  on,  that  he  might  preach  only  at  his 
option.     "  The  end  of  that  man  is  peace." 

Rev.  Wm.  CoUedge,  of  Crooked  Creek,  Pa.,  spent  the 
early  part  of  his  ministry  in  the  M.  E.  church.  But  his  able 
preaching  showed  no  traces  of  Arminianism.  It  would  have 
been  well,  if  there  had  been  a  holy  accommodation  like  that 
of  Paul,  who  said,  "  I  am  made  all  things  to  all  men,  that  I 
might  by  all  means  save  some." 

Rev.  L.  M.  Graves,  of  Appleby  Manor,  Pa.,  was  a  brother 
known  in  the  Seminary  where  he  was  held  in  good  esteem. 
His  mind  was  well  cultivated  and  his  conversation  quite 
acceptable,    bating    the  lowness  of    his  voice.     His    sermons 

13 


90  HISTORY    OF    T/IE 


would  have  appeared  better  in  print  than  to  the  ear  for  his 
deHvery  was  somewhat  dull  and  dragging.  He  early  resigned 
his  charge  and  engaged  in  husbandry. 

Rev.  John  Stark,  of  Cherry  Run,  Pa.,  came  to  us  from 
the  Associate  Reformed  church.  His  theological  training  had 
been  thorough.  His  performances  showed  great  acquaintance 
with  the  Scripture.  His  pronunciation  was  peculiar  and  his 
prayers  would  have  been  more-  acceptable,  to  men  at  least,  if 
each  one  had  been  divided  into  three  or  four. 

Rev.  W.  F.  Morgan,  of  Rural  Valley,  was  an  unassuming 
man  and  very  sociable.  He  excelled  in  pastoral  intercourse 
with  his  people  and  could  readily  "  condescend  to  men  of  low 
estate."  Though  possessed  of  a  seemingly  good  constitution, 
his  decline  was  rapid  and  the  first  intimation  of  his  sickness, 
to  many  of  his  brethren,  was  the  announcement  of  his  death. 

Rev.  J.  H.  Kirkpatrick,  of  Harmony,  was  severely 
crippled,  but  managed  to  surmount  the  difficulty  remarkably. 
He  could  do  many  things  on  his  farm  and  even  became  a  suc- 
cessful hunter.  Some  thought  he  spent  too  much  time  in 
these  pursuits,  but  those  who  assisted  him  on  communion 
seasons  best  knew^  his  solicitude  for  the  people  of  his  charge. 
Probably  his  lameness  had  some  influence  in  causing  him  to 
resign  his  charge  sooner  than  age  alone  would  have  required. 

Rev.  John  Caruthers,  of  Gilgal,  Pa.  "  Behold  an  Israelite 
indeed  in  whom  is  no  guile."  He,  too,  was  a  brother  in  the 
seminary  and  regarded  there  as  an  eminently  godly  man.  He 
was  unambitious,  unassuming  and  a  self-denying  man.  His 
scattered,  changing  charge  required  exhausting  pastoral  labor, 
and  much  additional  toil  was  incurred  in  attending  annually 
four  meetings  of  Presbytery  from  his  remote  position.  His 
heart  was  in  his  work  and  he  thought  nothing  hard  that  was 
necessary  to  fulfil  it.  His  vocabulary  contained  little  else  than 
Anglo  Saxon  words.  Much  of  his  time  was  spent  in  com- 
munion with  his  God.  Though  a  pronounced  Abolitionist, 
which  was  very  unpopular  in  his  day,  no  person  was  alienated 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  91 

from  him  on  that  account;  nor  were  his  affections  cooled 
towards  any  brother  who  took  the  other  side.  Under 
symptoms  of  dechme  he  resigned  his  charge  and  soon  was 
severely  paralyzed,  disabled  from  mental  labor  as  well  as 
bodily  activity.  The  last  article  in  the  Banner  from  his  pen 
was  on  the  words  of  good  king  Hezekiah,  "O  Lord!  I  am 
oppressed!  undertake  for  me."  The  hearts  of  those  who 
knew  him  alone  could  appreciate  the  touching,  tender,  plead- 
ing words  of  that  production.  It  is  consolatory  to  know  that 
in  his  years  of  helplessness  he  enjoyed  every  care  and  comfort 
which  the  tenderest  aftection  could  atTord, 

Rev.  Jas.  E.  Caruthers,  of  Leechburg,  youngest  brother 
of  John,  was  long  kept  back  from  his  cherished  desire,  the 
holy  ministr}',  by  dutiful  attendance  on  his  declining  mother. 
Though  thirty-two  years  of  age  at  her  death,  he  immediately 
commenced  preparation  for  his  work.  Being  quite  talented, 
and  because  "  bene  orasse  est  bene  sUiduisse^''  two  years  sufficed 
him  in  the  academy,  two  in  the  college  and  two  in  the  semin- 
ary. In  the  last  year  he  supplied  four  congregations,  riding 
out  on  one  Saturday  fifty  miles  in  one  direction  and  supplyino- 
two  congregations  six  miles  apart,  and  on  the  next  Saturdav 
riding  out  forty  miles  in  another  direction  to  supply  two  others 
seven  miles  apart.  Thus  he  completed  his  thirty-eighth  year 
with  the  impression  that  his  iron  constitution  was  proof 
against  any  measure  of  toil.  He  accepted  calls  to  the  last 
two  congregations  referred  to,  and  served  them  faithfully  for 
ten  years.  Upon  an  urgent  call  from  Yates  City,  111.,  he 
resigned  his  charge  here  and  accepted  another  there.  Soon, 
however,  he  found  himself  less  at  home  than  in  Kittanning 
Presbytery  where  he  was  universally  known  and  esteemed, 
and  resigned  again.  Returning  to  the  home  of  his  affections, 
his  overtaxed  system  gave  way  and  he  sank  to  repose  "  where 
the  wicked  cease  from  troubling  and  the  weary  are  at  rest." 

Rev.  Robert  McMillan,  of  Apollo,  grandson  of  the 
renowned  Dr.  John  McMillan,  was  received  by  our  Presby- 
tery in  a  very  cordial  manner,  "  beloved  for  the  father's  sake." 


92  HISTORY    OF    THE 


But  not  content  to  rest  merely  on  ancestral  reputation,  by  a 
godly  life,  faithful  preaching  and  affectionate  deportment  he 
gained  the  hearts  of  his  brethren  and  especially  of  his  beloved 
charge.  "He  was  a  good  man  and  full  of  the  Holy  Ghost." 
High  hopes  were  entertained  for  his  future,  but  in  the  midst 
of  these  brightening  prospects  a  disease,  which  from  boy- 
hood had  slumbered  inactive  in  his  system,  broke  out  afresh 
and  unfitted  him  for  his  work.  For  years  he  enjoyed  the  best 
medical  treatment  in  the  endeavor  to  regain  his  health  and 
vigor.  Meantime  his  loving  charge  gained  for  themselves  no 
ordinary  regard  by  refusing  to  accept  his  resignation.  But  at 
length  his  continued  decline  seemed  plainly  to  say,  "The 
Master  is  come  and  calleth  for  thee."  To  that  call  he  calmly 
responded  and  is  "  safe  in  the  arms  of  Jesus." 

Rev.  W.  W.  Woodend,  D.  D.,  of  Saltsburg,  Pa.,  entered  the 
charge  as  successor  of  the  Rev.  Watson  Hughes.  He  was  a 
man  born  to  activity,  a  Christian  at  fourteen  years  of  age,  a 
good  scholar,  a  laborious  preacher,  and  had  such  facility  in  the 
preparation  of  sermons  as  is  seldom  equaled.  Withal  he  was 
a  very  watchful  pastor.  Whatever  threatened  the  welfare  of 
his  flock  he  was  quick  to  observe  and  shrewd  to  avert.  Thus 
his  church  kept  continual}}'  on  the  increase  in  numbers  and 
distinction.  When  a  third  of  a  century  had  been  spent  in 
this  laborious  service,  he  resigned  the  charge.  He  traveled 
westward  and  eastward  and  then  took  another  charge. 
Though  he  had  been  famed  for  vigilance  as  a  Presbyter  here, 
he  took  but  little  part  in  such  services  there,  and  early  resign- 
ing returned  to  this  Presbyter3\  Immediately  he  was  in  great 
demand  as  a  supply  to  various  churches.  But  before  his 
appointments  had  all  been  fulfilled,  with  the  loss  of  a  single 
Sabbath,  responding  to  the  Master's  call,  he  laid  down  the 
cross  and  took  up  the  crown.  "  Very  pleasant  hast  thou  been 
to  me,  my  brother." 

The  length  of  this  service  and  the  pressing  demands  of 
others  yet  to  come,  forbid  me  to  enter  on  the  enumeration  of 
godly,  faithful  fathers  in  the  eldership  who  have  nobly  held  up 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  93 

their  pastor's  hands  while  the  battles  of  the  Lord  were  in  pro- 
gress. Few  topics  would  spring  from  a  warmer  place  in  my 
own  heart  and  meet  a  more  cordial  response  in  the  hearts  of 
my  brethren  in  the  Presbytery.  But  yielding  to  the  necessi- 
ties of  the  case  our  hearts  may  all  join  in  the  expression, 
^'  In  pace  regziiescantJ'' 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  95 


aHUR<2Hi:S. 


APOLLO. 


TTTTTTTTTTTrTTTT 


BY  REV.  J.  Q.  A.  FULLERTON. 


TTTTTTTTTTTrTTTT 


The  Apollo  Presbyterian  Church  was  at  first  named  "  Warren,'^ 
the  former  name  of  the  place  in  which  the  church  is  located.  In 
1848,  the  town  took  its  present  name,  Apollo,  and  the  church  has 
since  borne  the  same  title.  In  the  year  1816,  this  settlement  was 
so  small,  it  may  be  said  to  have  been  "  in  the  woods."  Then  the 
owners  of  the  land,  Messrs.  Spear  and  Johnson  laid  out  fifty  lots, 
and  on  condition  of  their  being  sold,  promised  to  give  two  acres  for 
a  church  and  burial  ground.  The  lots  were  sold,  the  promised 
property  was  accepted  and  entered  upon  but  no  deed  was  given. 
Some  years  afterward,  when  the  first  or  stone  church  had 
been  built,  the  Owens  farm  adjoining  was  sold  to  Mr.  John 
Andrew,  and  he  included  the  church  and  grave  yard  in  his 
survey.  Mr.  Andrew  proposed,  however,  that  if  the  Presbyterian 
Church  would  give  him  $25,  he  would  deed  the  property.  This 
amount  was  immediately  paid,  and  the  deed  was  executed  to  David 
Watson,  Samuel  Gordon  and  George  T.  Crawford,  trustees  of  the 
Presbyterian  Church,  and  their  successors  in  office,  to  have  and 
hold  for  church  and  burial  ground.  Elder  Jacob  McCartney 
mounted  his  horse  on  the  next  morning  and  had  the  deed  recorded 
at  Kittanning  on  that  day. 

Previous  to  the  erection  of  any  church,  worship  was  held  in  the 
open  air,  across  the  ravine,  at  the  present  south  end  of  Apollo, 
the  people  being  seated  on  lo^^s,  while   the   minister   was   covered 


96  HISTORV    OF    THE 


by  a  tent.  These  services  held  every  two  weeks  or  less 
frequently,  were  mostly  conducted  by  ministers  of  the  Presbytery, 
among  whom  were  Revs.  Coe,  Stockton,  Bartley,  Dunlap  and 
Lee.  As  early  as  1814,  the  congregation  was  regarded  as  part  of 
the  organization  of  Poke  Run  Church,  when  two  elders,  Jame.s 
Guthrie  and  James  Jackson  were  chosen  by  that  church  with 
special  reference  to  their  services  being  given  to  that  portion  of  the 
congregation  lying  witliin  Armstrong  county,  and  near  Beaver 
Run,  The  pastor  of  Poke  Run  Church  preached  occassionally  at 
or  near  this  place.  The  first  communion  of  the  Apollo  congrega- 
tion was  held  in  a  barn  on  the  farm  south  of  Apollo,  now  known 
as  the  Solomon  Hilty  farm,  but  then  owned  by  Samuel  McKee. 
The  formal  organization  of  the  church  by  the  Presbytery  of 
Redstone  must  have  taken  place  between  sixty  and  seventy  years 
ago.  The  records  of  Redstone  Presbytery  show  that  Mr.  Laird 
was  appointed  to  supply  a  Sabbath  at  Warren,  April  16, 1817. 

Before  any  pastorate  begun  the  Rev.  Robert  Lee  was  the  stated 
supply  for  six  months,  having  been  appointed  by  the  Presbytery  of 
Redstone,  and  two  additional  elders,  James  Watson  and  James 
Miller  were  chosen. 

In  1824,  Rev.  Joseph  Harper  accepted  a  call  for  one-half  of 
his  time,  and  he  was  duly  installed  pastor  of  Warren  and  Saltsburg. 
In  1826,  soon  after  his  coming,  a  house  of  worship,  built  of  stone, 
was  erected  on  the  property  above  mentioned,  and  about  one 
hundred  yards  south  west  of  the  present  structure.  It  was  at  first 
somewhat  rough  in  its  exterior;  was  the  only  church  building  in 
Apollo  for  some  time;  stood  for  forty  years,  and  was  the  mother- 
roof  also  of  the  Seceder  or  United  Presbyterian,  Methodist  and 
Lutheran  congregations  of  Apollo.  The  Seceders  having  assisted 
m  the  erection  of  the  church,  were  granted  regular  occupancy,  and 
contributed  their  quota  toward  keeping  the  church  in  order.  The 
Presbyterian  congregation  at  this  time  numbered  about  a  hundred, 
nearly  all  being  of  the  farming  community.  The  pastor,  Mr. 
Harper,  resided  in  Saltsburg,  and  preached  in  Apollo  on  alternate 
Sabbaths.  He  was  an  educated  man,  married,  and  of  family,  of 
middle  age  and  stature,  and  of  robust  health.  He  preached  with 
much  energy,  and  on  one  occasion,  with  a  shout,  fell  in  the  pulpit, 
being  over-wrought  in  exhortation. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  97 

At  this  time  two  communions  were  held  during  the  year.  Fast 
day  was  observed  on  Thursday,  and  services  were  continued  from 
then  until  Monday,  tokens  being  distributed  on  Saturday.  Watts' 
version  of  the  psalms  was  lined  by  one  clerk  and  the  music  was  led 
by  another,  both  standing  in  front  facing  the  people.  The  clerks 
at  that  time  were  John  Jackson,  John  Crawford  and  John  Paul. 
The  services  in  the  winter  consisted  of  a  single  morning  discourse, 
but  in  the  summer  they  began  at  10:30  o'clock  A.  m.,  and  continued 
until  12  o'clock,  when  there  was  an  intermission  of  half  an  hour, 
followed  by  another  discourse  in  a  service  of  about  three-quarters 
of  an  hour.  Sabbath  school  and  prayer  meeting, — they  were  not, 
but  at  some  place  of  assemblage  previously  announced,  catechising 
was  occasionally  conducted.  The  duties  of  sexton  were  then  per- 
formed in  turn  by  the  members.  Mr.  Harper  resigned  after  a 
pastorate  of  four  or  five  years. 

Following  Mr.  Harper,  the  Rev.  Dunlap,  "  a  Scotchman,"  sup- 
plied the  pulpit  for  about  six  months.  His  superior  power  in  the 
pulpit,  it  is  said,  very  much  deceived  his  unpretending  appearance 
on  the  street  or  in  the  home. 

He  was  followed  by  the  Rev.  Watson  Hughes,  who,  in  April, 
1830,  was  ordained  and  installed  over  Warren  and  Saltsburg  for 
half  time  each.  He  also  resided  in  Saltsburg.  He  was  a  man  of 
medium  size  and  fine  appearance.  While  pastor  he  was  married  to 
Miss  Caldwell,  of  New  Jersey.  Soon' after  he  came  the  Sabbath 
School  was  started,  he  teaching  the  Bible  class.  He  was  a  very 
good  man,  of  even  temper,  an  excellent  preacher,  faithful  pastor 
and  good  singer.  Temperance  meetings  were  conducted  under  his 
auspices,  assisted  as  speakers  by  Elder  James  Guthrie  and  trustees 
Samuel  Gordon  and  George  T.  Crawford.  The  latter  would 
write  his  speech  during  the  meeting,  and  rise  and  read  it,  being  un- 
able to  speak  ex  ternpore.  After  about  seven  years  of  a  pastorate 
here,  Mr.  Hughes'  throat  becoming  affected,  his  preaching  appoint- 
ments in  Apollo  were  frequently  broken,  so  that  finally  he  resigned 
and  was  released  in  1837  to  give  his  whole  time  to  Saltsburg. 

During  this  pastorate  elder  James  Miller  withdrew  from  the 
church,  and  James  Watson,  because  of  age  and  infirmity,  ceased  to 
act  as  elder.  Four  elders  were  elected  and  ordained — William 
McGeary,  Samuel  Crosby,  John  Dible  and  James  Chambers. 


98 


HISTORY    OF    THE 


For  about  a  year  after  Mr.  Hughes  left  the  preaching  was  by 
supplies,  among  whom  were  the  Rev.  Drs.  Kirkpatrick  and 
McFarren. 

Now  seems  to  have  come  a  period  of  languishing,  for  a  member  of 
the  church,  who  afterwards  was  made  an  elder,  repaired  unappointed 
to  the  Presbytery  and  reported  that  the  church  officials  declared,  in 
their  opinion,  the  church  was  unable  to  sustain  a  pastor,  and  he 
inquired  of  the  Presbytery  whether  it  would  allow  the  church  to 
die  out.  The  answer  was,  "  No,"  and  on  October  2,  1888,  Ihe  Rev. 
Dr.  Alexander  Donaldson,  then  just  from  the  Seminary,  was 
appointed  by  Blairsville  Presbytery  to  supply  the  church  one-third 
of  his  time  for  six  months.  At  the  close  of  his  time  the  Apollo 
church  was  on  the  point  of  making  out  a  call  for  his  services  as 
pastor,  but  was  anticipated  by  Elder's  Ridge  church,  much  to  the 
disappointment  of  Apollo. 

It  may  be  stated  here  that  as  Pine  Run,  Boiling  Spring  and 
Leechburg  churches  were  respectively  organized  about  this  time 
they  made  telling  draughts  upon  the  strength  of  Apollo  from 
among  those  members  who  lived  nearer  the  newer  organizations. 

The  next  pastor,  the  Rev.  Levi  M.  Graves,  who  was  installed  in 
1840,  divided  his  time  equally  between  Apollo  and  the  new  church 
at  Boiling  Spring.  He  was  tall  and  slender,  and  of  rather  a  frail 
structure.  He  understood  music  well  and  taught  among  others 
Wm.  James,  who  became  a  singing  teacher  and  clerk  at  Boiling 
Spring  church.  He  was  very  sociable,  and  had  a  marked  fondness 
for  horses.  Apollo  not  providing  him  a  help-meet,  he  married  a 
lady  of  high  accomplishments  and  of  reputed  good  financial  pros- 
pects, Miss  Smith,  of  Crooked  Creek.  A  new  church  being 
soon  built  at  that  point  he  resigned  Apollo  in  1843  and  removed  to 
Crooked  Creek  to  labor  as  pastor.  With  many  interruptions, 
because  of  failing  health,  he  continued  to  preach  until  his  death, 
January  1,  1881. 

In  1846,  the  Rev.  Cyrus  B.  Bristol  was  installed  over  the  same 
charge,  and  his  pastorate  of  about  twelve  years  is  the  longest  in  the 
history  of  this  congregation.  He  was  an  aged  man,  resided  at 
Spring  Church,  and  preached  in  Apollo  on  alternate  Sabbaths.  He 
introduced  the  church  prayer  meetings,  which  were  conducted  by 
the  elders.  At  the  same  time  women's  prayer  meetings  were 
carried    on    in    their    homes,    assisted    in    the    singing  by   a    clerk. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  99 

Among  the  women  most  active  were  Mrs.  Dr.  McCuIlough,  Mrs. 
J.  J.James,  Mrs.  Amburst  and  Mrs.  Alexander.  The  missionars' 
cause  also  received  special  attention,  and  on  one  occasion  the  con- 
gregation raised  thirty  dollars,  which  was  given  to  Mr.  Bristol,  to 
have  his  wife  constituted  a  life  member  of  this  Missionary  Societv. 
Elder  Wm.  Miller  was  surprised  one  day  at  receiving  through  the 
post-office  a  certificate  constituting  him  a  life  member. 

The  stone  church,  which  to  this  time  had  presented  a  rough 
exterior,  was  plastered  on  the  outside  and  penciled,  and  the  pews 
were  renewed  thoroughout.  When  Mr.  Bristol  resigned,  1856,  he 
went  to  the  West,  and  is  still  living,  at  an  advanced  age. 

During  this  pastorate,  and  in  the  year  1844,  J.  Y.  McCartney, 
Thomas  Cochran  and  Matthew  Barr  were  ordained  elders,  and 
William  Miller  and  William  McKee,  in  J  847.  Of  these  Mr.  Barr 
was  dismissed  in  1850,  Mr.  Cochran  in  1854,  Mr.  McKee  in  1856, 
and  Mr.  McCartney  died  November  30,  1880. 

In  the  year  1857,  the  Rev.  Robert  McMillan,  "  grandson  of 
the  pioneer  of  Presbyterianism  in  Western  Pennsylvania,"  began 
his  services  here,  and  first  as  a  supply  for  six  months,  for  he  had  not 
yet  finished  his  theological  course  at  the  Seminary.  The  pastoral 
charge  was  now  to  include  for  one-half  time  Pine  Run  church 
instead  of  Boiling  Spring,  and,  his  studies  completed,  he  was 
ordained,  and  then  installed  over  this  charge  in  the  month  of 
August.  He  is  the  first  pastor  who  made  his  home  in  Apollo. 
The  congregation  was  now  divided  into  districts,  each  being 
assigned  to  the  labors  of  two  elders,  and  for  about  two  years  they 
were  quite  active  in  visiting  by  two-and-two  the  homes  of  the 
members.  Occasional  prayer  meetings  were  also  held  by  the 
membership  in  their  respective  neighborhoods.  The  Sabbath 
School,  which  for  several  years  had  but  one  male  member  in 
regular  attendance,  was  now  reorganized,  and  Messrs.  John 
Chambers,  W.  C.  Bovard,  and  others,  were  chosen  for  officers. 
The  pastor  and  elder  William  Miller  acted  as  superintendent  alter- 
nately. At  the  beginning  of  this  pastorate  clerks  were  dropped,  and 
the  choir  which  had  been  introduced  in  Mr.  Bristol's  time  now  led 
the  music  exclusively.  About  this  time  quite  an  accession  was 
made  of  families  on  the  Westmoreland  side  from  the  Poke  Run 
church,  among  whom  were  the  Pauls,  Blairs,  Callens,  Marshalls, 
Moores,  Barbours,  Chambers  and  Brattons,  numbering  twenty-five 


100  HISTORY    OF    THE 


in  all,  in  full  membership.  While  here  Mr.  McMillan  married 
Miss  Lizzie  White,  of  Lancaster  county,  ami  the  presence  mnowj; 
the  people  for  the  first  time  of  a  pastor's  wile  as  one  of  them,  and 
she  of  sterling^  character,  contributed  new  strength  to  the  congrega- 
tion. 

After  four  years  of  labor  Mr.  McMillan  began  to  fail  in  health, 
and  his  ministrations  for  two  years  or  more  were  not  rendered  by 
himself  more  than  half  his  time.  "  He  wished  at  once  to  resign  his 
charge,  that  it  might  pass  into  the  hands  of  another  capable  of  per- 
forming its  duties,  but  the  people  would  not  consent."  His  '>alurv 
was  continued  m  full,  and  the  time  not  occupied  by  his  ministrations 
was  provided  for  by  the  congregation  and  the  Presbytery.  He  was 
highly  revered  as  a  man,  and  as  a  preacher  many  thought  him  to 
be  unsurpassed.  On  his  way  to  Pine  Run  church  he  once  spoke  to 
certain  "  whittlers  "  on  the  bridge  of  their  violation  of  the  Sabbath, 
and  it  is  said  the  bridge  was  ever  after  well  cleared  when  he  passed. 

In  the  Presbyterian  Historical  Almanac  for  1865,  there  is  a 
warm  tribute  of  affection  for  him  from  the  pen  of  his  friend  and 
neighboring  pastor,  the  Rev.  Alexander  Donaldson,  D,  D.  In  it 
there  is  a  quotation  from  the  words  of  Rev.  John  Stockton,  D.  D., 
Mr.  McMillan's  pastor,  viz:  "He  had  talents  of  a  high  order, 
cultivated  by  thorough  education.  His  manners  were  most  modest 
and  retiring,  and  in  his  whole  conduct,  candor  and  integrit}'  stood 
forth  with  unusual  prominence."  Not  recuperating  strength 
through  the  rest  given,  he  resigned  and  was  released  June  29,1864, 
and  died  August  1st  of  the  same  year. 

When  Mr.  McMillan  was  installed  Dr.  Donaldson  was  expected 
to  preach,  but  did  not  arrive,  his  son  being  sick,  when  the  Rev. 
John  Stark,  of  Cherry  Run,  was  called  upon  to  give  the  discourse. 
He  asked  ten  minutes  to  prepare,  and  after  a  walk  in  the  grave 
yard,  preached  a  sermon  which  has  left  its  impress  to  this  day,  from 
the  words,  "  Brethren  pray  for  us  that  the  word  of  the  Lord  may 
have  free  course  and  be  glorified,  even  as  it  is  with  vou." 

On  the  23d  of  September,  1858,  James  Paul,  David  Watt, 
David  Kepple  and  William  C.  Bovard  were  ordained  to  the  elder- 
ship. Mr.  Paul  was  dismissed  in  1868,  and  Mr.  Watt  died  in 
September,  1875.     Mr.  Bovard  was  dismissed  November  23,  1881. 

Succeeding  Mr.  McMillan  came  another  well  beloved  pastor, 
the  Rev.  John  Orr.       Being  in  the  Seminary  he  likewise  'supplied 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNIN'G.  101 

the  pulpit  for  six  months  before  ordination  and  installation,  at  Pine 
Run  church  in  1865.  At  the  close  of  his  pastorate,  also  for  a  year 
•or  more  he  could  only  occasionally  fill  his  pulpit  on  account  of  ill 
health,  his  ability  to  study  being  impaired  by  "neuralgia  in  the 
region  of  the  eyes  whenever  he  would  apply  his  mind  or  even  read 
for  a  short  time."  The  same  generosity  of  the  church,  however, 
was  extended  to  Mr.  Orr  that  had  been  bestowed  on  Mr.  McMillan, 
but  like  him,  not  improving,  he  was  finally  compelled  to  resign  his 
•charge  on  April  3, 1872,  and  besides  cease  the  functions  ot  a  pastor. 
Mr.  Orr  is  still  living,  doing  good,  and  in  business  with  his  brother 
in  Pittsburgh.  He  married  Miss  Lottie  Weber,  of  Wisconsin,  two 
or  three  years  after  he  entered  on  his  duties  as  pastor.  His  manner 
among  his  people  was  quiet,  but  he  was  kind  and  sociable,  and  his 
services  as  preacher  and  pastor  were  very  acceptable  to  the  con- 
gregation. The  excellent  savor  of  his  name  and  work  still  lingers 
in  many  of  the  hearts  of  the  members  of  this  congregation,  who 
often  delight  to  revive  the  memory  of  his  presence  and  work. 
Shortly  after  Mr.  Orr  came  the  present  brick  edifice  was  erected 
upon  a  foundation  of  the  stones  of  the  wall  of  the  old  church.  They 
are  still  doing  their  Master's  work,  as  are  the  living  stones  of  the 
temple  of  God  that  worshipped  within  those  walls,  for  being  dead 
they  yet  speak. 

This  new  church  building  was  not  finished  on  the  second  floor 
at  the  first,  and  for  several  years  all  worship  was  conducted  on  the 
first  floor. 

The  inauguration  ol  an  elders'  prayer  meeting  was  a  feature  of 
the  early  part  of  Mr.  Orr's  pastorate.  It  met  every  Sabbath  at  8 
p.  M,,  "  for  special  prayer  for  the  interests  of  the  church,  and 
guidance  in  the  discharge  of  their  duties  as  members  of  session,"  It 
was  maintained  during  the  whole  time  of  his  pastorate,  and  the 
greater  part  of  his  successor's.  The  young  members  of  the  church 
were  invited  to  take  part,  which  many  did,  giving  additional  inter- 
est to  the  meetings,  as  well  as  adding  very  materially  to  their  use- 
fulness in  the  church. 

In  1869,  James  Watson  and  Labanah  Townsen,  elders  from 
other  churches  were  made  elders  of  Apollo  church.  Mr.  Watson 
was  dismissed  to  Pine  Run  in  1881. 

The  Rev.  Hezekiah  Magill,  who  followed  Mr.  Orr,  was  called 
from   the  church  at  Concord,  same   Presbytery,  and  was   installed 


lOSr  HrSTORY    OF    THET 


October  18th,  1872  over  Apollo  for  all  his  time,  preaching  morning 
and  evening.  At  the  installation  Dr.  Donaldson  surprised  every 
one  present  by  bringing  out  and  placing  on  the  pulpit  the  beautiful 
communion  set  nov/  in  use,  and  presented  by  Mrs.  Joseph 
Shoemaker.  Mr.  Magill  brought  a  wife  and  one  child  with  him, 
the  former  giving  a  marked  impetus  to  the  missionary  work,  at- 
she  was  recognized  as  a  leader  in  such  work  in  the  Presbytery, 
The  now  prosperous  Women's  Foreign  Missionary  Society  of  this' 
church  was  organized  in  1874,  with  102  members,  Mrs.  Dr.  Wm^ 
McBryar,  President;  and  in  1877,  under  the  care  of  this  society 
the  mission  bands  were  constituted  with  Mrs.  Magill,  President^ 
which  ever  since  have  been  of  great  assistance.  In  the  first  five 
years  almost  a  thousand  dollars  was  raised  by  the  Women's  Society, 
and  nearly  all  was  given  to  the  support  of  Mrs.  Van  Dyke,, 
missionary  in  Spain. 

A  notable  Presbyterial  mission  convention  was  held  in  this, 
church  just  previous  to  this  organization,  being  ihe  first  held  in  the 
Presbytery,  and  it  has  not  been  exceeded  in  interest  to  this  day. 
Among  those  present  v/ere  Dr.  George  P.  Hays,  lately  Moderator 
of  the  General  Assembly,  Dr.  Johnson,  of   India,  and  Miss  Loring. 

As  a  preacher  Mr.  Magill  was  very  Interesting,  as  he  was,  as  a 
worker,  very  successful.  The  congregation  grew  rapidly  undei 
his  tabors  and  those  of  his  lielpers,  and  his  salary  was  advanced 
several  times  until  it  reached  $1,500,  the  largest  amount  ever  paid 
by  the  Apollo  congregation.  In  1878  the  membership  was  255, 
being  nearly  the  same  in  number  as  when  the  present  pastorate 
began.  The  upper  room  was  now  finished,  and  the  church  was 
regularly  dedicated.  An  organ  was  for  the  first  time  introduced 
into  the  church.  Miss  Alice  B-ovard  being  the  organist,  and  the 
music  was  thereafter  conducted,  as  in  the  present,  and  we  hope,  as^ 
well. 

During  the  early  part  of  Mr.  Magill's  pastoiate  a  young  ladies' 
prayer  meeting  was  commenced,  having  their  meeting  every 
Sabbath  afternoon  at  3  o'clock  in  the  gallery  of  the  church,  and  at 
the  same  hour  the  young  men's  prayer  meeting  was  in  session  in 
the  basement  ot  the  church.  This  is  said  to  have  been  a  time  of 
tenderness  of  spirit,  "  and  the  mingling  and  commingling  of  voices 
in  song  and  prayer  from  those  young  Christians  was  very  impres- 
sive." 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  lOB 

During  the  last  two  years  ot  Mr.  Magill's  pastorate  one-fourth 
of  his  time  was  given  to  the  Boiling  Spring  church,  Gn  August 
17,  1879,  he  resigned  this  field,  and  accepted  calls  to  Union  and 
Midway,  which,  after  serving  until  October  8th,  1884,  he  left  to 
•occupy  a  field  in  the  West,  in  which  portion  of  the  country  he  still 
successfully  labors.  Up  to  this  time  Labanah  Townsen,  William 
H.  Watt,  S.  M.  Jackson,  Thomas  A,  Cochran  and  R.  R.  Young 
had  been  superintendents  of  the  Sabbath  School.  On  the  22d  of 
June,  1880,  John  Glass,  Samuel  M.  Jackson  and  A.  H.  McKown 
were  installed  as  ruling  elders. 

Gn  July  29,  1880,  the  year  following  Mr.  Magill's  resignation 
the  Rev.  Samuel  E.  Elliott  was  installed  pastor,  supplying  Boiling 
■Spring  one-fourth  of  his  time.  Mr.  Elliott  was  a  faithful  student 
and  zealous  preacher,  many  of  his  sermons,  it  is  said,  appealing  to 
the  conscience  with  stirring  effect.  A  number  became  very 
warmly  attached  to  hrm,  and  still  hold  him  in  high  esteenrv,  admiring 
him  for  his  consciencious  adherence  to  his  convictions,  foi  having  the 
courage  to  express  them,  and  for  his  faithfulness  to  the  interest', 
committed  to  him.  The  increase  and  decrease  of  members  were 
about  equal  during  his  ministry.  While  pastor  he  married  Miss 
Kate  E.  Clark,  of  Washington  county.  After  a  work  of  a  little 
more  than  four  years  he  resigned  this  charge  October  7,  1884,  and 
is  now  pastor  at  Mt.  Pleasant,  Pa. 

It  may  be  stated  that  while  the  Apollo  church  gave  no  com- 
panions to  her  own  pastors,  three  of  her  daughters  are  now  wives 
of  living  pastors,  active  in  other  churches,  and  this  proved  efficiency 
of  those  women  should  certainly  make  this  a  most  attractive  spot 
for  unmarried  students  of  theological  intent. 

The  new  elders  ordained  in  1880,  viz:  John  Glass,  S.  M. 
Jackson  and  A.  H.  McKown,  with  William  Miller,  David  Kepple 
and  Labanah  Townsen  constitute  the  session  at  this  writing.  The 
latter,  while  ordained  at  Boiling  Spring  in  1855,  was  chosen  at 
Apollo  in  1869,  and  has  been  a  faithful  presbyter,  an  efficient  clerk 
of  the  session  tor  fifteen  years,  and  Treasurer  of  the  church  contri- 
butions in  all  departments  for  eighteen  years.  Elder  William 
Miller  has  performed  the  duties  of  sexton  for  the  long  period  of 
nearly  forty  years,  and  continuously,  save  for  two  years  by  Mr. 
Joseph  Hilty,  and  still  keeps  us  all  warm.  The  members  of  the 
Board  of  Trustees  are  William  McBryar,  M.  D.,  President;  F.  T. 


104  HISTORY    OF    TlfE 


Wray,    Secretary;    William     Keppel,    Treasurer;  William     Van 
Tassel,  Simon  Grim  and  Philip  McMullen. 

The  congregation  has  been  favored  with  an  excej>tionally 
capable  and  faithful  corps  of  volunteer  laborers  in  all  its  depart- 
ments of  special  lines  of  work.  The  choir  now  kd  by  Major 
Thomas  A.  Cochran  never  faik  to  be  represented,  or  to  conduct 
the  hymn  to  the  end,  and  in  every  way  possible  has  rendered  most 
efficient  service,  while  the  organist,  Miss  Ada  McBryar,  has  been 
faithfully  at  her  post  on  every  occasion  with  scarce  an  exception, 
both  in  the  public  worship  and  Sabbath  School,  for  over  seven 
years.  That  most  important  department  of  the  church,  the  Sabbath 
School,  was  never  more  flourishing,  and  is  now  carried  on  by  a 
band  of  officers  and  teachers  to  be  taught  by  whom  is  a  privilege. 
Major  Cochran  has  been  superintendent  for  several  years,  and  now 
reports  800  members.  The  Woman's  Foreign  Missionary  Society 
before  mentioned,  with  Mrs.  James  McQuilkin,  President,  aided  by 
the  mission  bands,  has  collected  over  $2,200  in  the  last  thirteen 
years,  and  dunng  eight  years  of  that  time  $1,200  of  that  sum  were 
contributed  toward  the  salary  of  Miss  Wherry,  now  missionary  in 
India,  supported  in  part  by  the  Apollo  church. 

In  the  midst  of  these  flourishing  activities  the  existing  pastorate 
began.  As  this  sketch  is  prepared  by  the  present  pastor,  he  will 
simply  give  a  recital  of  the  facts  of  record,  and  personal  tracings,  as 
stated  in  case  of  the  previous  pastors,  leaving  out  encomium 
and  the  opinions  of  the  living.  He  was  called  from  eastern 
Pennsjdvania  after  twelve  years  of  pastoral  labor  in  that  locality, 
and  installed  January  13,  1885,  three-fourths  of  his  time  over 
Apollo,  and  one-fourth  over  Boiling  Spring  church.  He  made 
his  residence  in  Apollo,  with  his  family,  his  wife  being  a  daughter 
of  J.  B.  Van  Doren,  elder  of  the  First  Church  of  Princeton,  N. 
y.,  where  Mr.  FuUerton  pursued  the  complete  collegiate  and 
theological  course.  There  were  two  h  ndred  and  fifty  members  on 
his  assumption  of  the  pastorate  of  Apollo.  There  have  been  one 
hundred  and  twenty  five  members  added  in  those  three  years,  all  of 
whom  are  still  striving  to  fulfil  their  Christian  duties,  althous-h  a 
number  have  in  the  same  time  died  or  removed.  An  increase  has 
lieen  made  in  the  financial  record  of  each  year,  and  at  the  close  of 
the  current  ecclesiastical  year  the  benevolent  contributions  therefor 
will  be  two-fold  that  of  any  previous  year,  but  being  partly  special 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  105 

subscriptions,  that  advance  may  not  be  maintained  regularly.  A 
Young  Ladies'  Home  Missionary  Society  was  organized  the  first 
year,  with  Miss  Katie  Mc  Mullen,  President,  now  presided  over  by 
IVliss  Annie  Townsen.  In  a  little  over  two  years  of  existence  it 
raised  $275,  providing  for  numerous  calls  trom  Utah  and  other 
western  points. 

The  young  people  have  also  organized  a  Young  People's 
Christian  Endeavor  Society,  with  Philip  Mc  Mullen  for  President. 
This  is  one  of  the  most  popular  and  growing  societies  in  the 
United  States,  and  our  home  organization  is,  after  a  few  months' 
existence,  improving  both  in  numbers  and  interest,  and  trying  to 
solve  the  problem  whether  the  young  Christians  are  capable  of 
maintaining  a  leligious  meeting  of  their  own.  Apollo  being  a 
growing  manufacturing  centre,  imitating  the  city  churches,  the 
congregation  has,  under  like  obligation  with  them,  stepped  outside 
of  itself  and  with  the  co-operation  of  others  begun  the  erection  of 
a  Sabbath  School  chapel  on  the  confines  of  the  borough. 

On  the  whole  we  have  reason  as  pastor  and  people  to  be 
exceedingly  thankful  to  God  for  our  unbroken  peace  and  pros- 
perity, which  his  presence  and  his  power,  according  to  his 
promise  in  answer  to  our  prayers  and  labors,  have  so  evidently 
vouchsafed  unto  us,  fulfilling  his  own  words,  "  Peace  I  leave  with 
you,  my  peace  I  give  unto  you;  not  as  the  world  giveth,  give  I 
unto  you,"  and,  "  Lo  I  am  with  you  always,  even  unto  the  end  of 
the  world." 

Nor  can  we  bring  this  record  to  an  end  without  the  honest  testi- 
mony due  to  the  fiiithful  work  of  those  sterling  ministers,  elders, 
and  people  who  have  gone  before,  into  whose  labors  we  have 
entered,  and  especially  the  fathers  in  the  ministry  in  the  agricult- 
ural districts,  as  attested  by  the  lives  and  services  of  a  loyal  people 
whom  they  have  contributed  to  the  churches,  and  by  the  fi'equent 
happy  farewells  for  the  upper  sanctuary  of  heaven  of  those  who 
departed  from  us  to  enter  into  their  rest  and  be  with  Jesus.  May 
this  sacred  hill  of  Zion  be  the  birth  home  of  many  more  into  the 
everlasting  kingdom  as  it  has  been  the  upper  chamber  where  so 
many  have  already  in  melting  love  leaned  the  tired  head  upon  the 
Saviour's  bosom  that  now  are  with  him  in  glory  beholding  him 
as  he  is. 


14 


106  HISTOUY    OF    THE 


APPLEBY  MANOR. 


TTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY    REV.    DEWITT    M.    BENHAM. 


fTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


At  an  early  date,  the  Rev.  Elisha  McCurdy  preached  the 
gospel  to  the  people  of  the  Manor  district.  In  the  year  1839  Mr, 
lohn  Kerr,  a  licentiate  of  Washington  Presbytery,  who  was  at  the 
time  engaged  in  teaching  at  Kittanning,  held  divine  services  in  ;i 
school  house  standing  near  the  site  of  the  present  church.  Often, 
u2:)on  j^leasant  days,  worship  was  conducted  in  the  open  air  under 
the  forest  trees. 

The  earnest  Christians  who  were  thus  gathered  together  formed 
the  nucleus  of  what  is  now  known  as  the  Appleby  Manor  congre- 
gation. They  were  organized  into  a  church,  November  20, 1842,  by 
the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville.  The  membership  consisted  of  less 
than  twenty  persons.  At  the  time  of  the  organization  the  follow- 
ing names  appear  upon  the  roll:  Mr.  John  Christy  and  wife,  Mr. 
George  Ross,  Mrs.  ^[argaret  Ross,  Mr.  Josiah  Copley  and  wife, 
Elizabeth  Ross,  Mary  Ross,  Mr.  Samuel  Slay  maker  and  wife,  Mr. 
Charles  Montgomery  and  wife,  Mr.  Richard  Bailey  and  wife,  Mr. 
William  Wolf. 

The  first  pastor  was  Rev.  Levi  M.  Graves.  During  his  pastor- 
ate, the  house  of  worship,  still  used  by  the  congregation,  was 
erected.  Mr.  Graves  was  born  in  Canaan,  N.  V.,  May  12,  1810. 
He  was  graduated  from  Union  College  in  the  year  1835,  attended 
Auburn  Theological  Seminary  1835-36,  entered  the  Western 
Theological  Seminary  in  the  fall  of  1836,  and  was  graduated  in 
the  fall  of  1839.  Mr.  Graves  was  licensed  to  preach  the  gospel  by 
the  Presbytery   of  Washington   in   1838,  and   was  ordained  to  the 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  107 

ministry  by  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville  in  1840.  He  began  his 
hibors  as  pastor  of  the  Presbyterian  church  of  Boiling  Spring,  Pa., 
and  in  1841  we  lind  him  preaching  at  Crooked  Creek  and  Appleby 
Manor.  He  was  installed  regular  pastor  of  the  latter  church  at  the 
time  of  its  organization,  November  20,  1842.  In  1846  he  resigned 
his  charge,  and  from  that  date  until  1850  the  congregation  was 
without  a  pastor.  During  the  years  1850-52.  Mr.  Graves  again 
ministered  to  the  Manor  people.  From  1862  to  1878  he  was 
stated  supply  of  Crooked  Creek  congregation  and  part  of  the  time 
of  Mahoning.  The  Manor  pulpit  was  vacant  for  a  portion  of  this 
time  and  Mr.  Graves  acted  as  stated  supply.  This  service  he  per- 
formed through  a  period  of  some  five  years.  On  the  25th  of  Jan- 
uary, 1844,  he  was  married  to  Miss  Sarah  Smith.  Mr.  Graves  died 
at  Rosston,  Pa,,  January  1,  1881. 

The  second  pastor  of  the  Appleby  Manor  church  was  the  Rev. 
William  Colledge.  Mr.  CoUedge  was  born  in  Birmingham,  Eng- 
land, on  May  16,  1796.  At  the  age  of  fifteen,  he  made  profession 
of  his  faith  in  Christ,  and  became  connected  with  the  Wesleyan 
Methodist  denomination.  He  began  to  preach  in  his  eighteenth 
year,  remaining  in  England  until  1829.  Then  he  emigrated  to 
America,  and  in  the  year  1882  identified  himself  with  the  Metho- 
dist Protestant  denomination.  Mr.  Colledge  continued  in  that 
body  for  five  years.  During  this  time  he  supplied  churches  suc- 
cessively at  Uniontown  and  Connellsville,  Pa.,  as  one  charge,  at 
Middletown,  Pa.,  and  at  Mt.  Pleasant,  O.  He  was  received  by 
the  Presbytery  of  Steubenville  on  May  24,  1887.  His  successive 
fields  in  the  Presbyterian  church  were  Fairview,  Union  and  Fair- 
field, Crooked  Creek  and  Appleby  Manor  (1853-60.)  Mr.  Col- 
ledge died  November  14,  1867.  His  faithful  wife  is  still  living, 
and  has  her  home  at  Verona,  Pa. 

From  1860  the  pulpit  remained  unoccupied,  except  for 
occasional  preaching,  until  1867.  In  that  year  on  the  8th  of  May, 
Rev.  George  K.  Scott  was  installed  pastor.  Mr.  Scott  was  born 
in  Washington,  Pa.,  August  17,  1837.  He  graduated  from  Wash- 
ington College  in  the  class  of  1855,  and  from  the  Western  Theologi- 
cal Seminary  in  the  class  of  1858.  In  April  of  the  year  1858,  he 
was  licensed  to  preach  the  gospel  by  the  Presbytery  of  Washing- 
ington,  and  in  April  of  the  next  year  was  ordained  by  the  same 
Presbytery.     He   preached   at  Lockart,  Texas,  in   1860,  acted  as 


108  HISTORY    OF    THE 


Stated  supply  for  the  churches  of  Wayne  and  Chester,  O.,  during 
the  years  1861-62;  for  the  church  at  Virginia,  111.,  1863-65;  and 
for  Independence,  Mo.,  1865-66.  He  was  pastor  of  Appleby 
Manor  church  from  May  8,  1867  to  April  4,  1871;  Crooked  Creek, 
1867-70;  Cherry  Run,  1867-69,  and  Currie's  Run,  1869-71. 
After  resigning  these  charges,  Mr.  Scott  accepted  a  call  to  the 
church  at  Harrison  City,  1871-73.  He  was  pastor  at  Sewickley 
1873-75;  Clarksburg,  VV.  Va.,  1875-77;  acted  as  stated  supply  at 
Hughes'  river  and  Pennsboro,  1877-81 ;  taught  during  the  year 
1882;  was  pastor  of  the  church  of  Schellsburg,  Pa.,  1884;  has 
since  been  stated  supply  at  Greenfield,  111,  1885;  at  Georgetown, 
Texas,  1886;  at  Mobeetie,  Texas,  1887.  Mr.  Scott  was  married 
on  November  24,  1859,  to  Miss  Ella  Taylor  Beatty,  now  deceased. 

From  1871  to  1873  the  Manor  congregation  was  without  a 
pastor  and  enjoyed  only  occasional  preaching.  But  in  1873  the 
services  of  Mr.  William  W.  McLane  were  secured  as  stated  supply 
for  six  months.  Mr.  McLane  was  at  the  time  in  attendance  at  the 
Western  Theological  Seminary.  He  was  born  in  Indiana  county. 
Pa.,  November  13,1846;  graduated  from  Bethel  College  1871; 
from  the  Western  Theological  Seminary  1875;  was  licensed  to 
preach  by  the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning,  July  2,  1872;  ordained  by 
the  Presbytery  of  Redstone,  May  13,  1874;  installed  pastor  of  the 
Presbyterian  church  of  Brownsville,  Pa.,  1874,  which  charge  he 
filled  until  1878.  Mr.  McLane  then  became  pastor  of  the  Second 
Presbyterian  church  of  Steubenville,  O.  He  left  this  charge  in 
1883  and  is  now  pastor  of  a  Congregational  church  in  New  Haven, 
Conn. 

Mr.  Perrin  Baker  supplied  the  pulpit  of  the  ^[anor  church 
during  the  fall  and  winter  of  1874-75,  and  was  installed  pastor  tor 
one-third  time.  May  11,  1875,  the  remaining  portion  of  his  time 
being  equally  divided  between  Boiling  Spring  and  Crooked  Creek. 
July  10,  1878  he  was  released  from  Boiling  Spring,  after  which  his 
time  was  equally  divided  between  the  other  two  churches  of  his 
charge  until  January  29,  1883,  when  he  was  released  to  take  charge 
of  the  church  at  Belle  Vernon,  Pa.,  where  he  still  remains.  His 
pastorate  in  these  churches  was  marked  by  earnestness  and  fidelity 
and  very  encouraging  success. 

Mr.  Baker  was  born  at  Independence,  Pa.,  October  13,  1847. 
He  was  graduated  from  the  college  of  New  Jersey  in  1872,  and  from 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  109 

'the  Western  Theological  Seminary  in  1875.  He  was  licensed  to 
preach  April  29,  1874  by  the  Presbytery  of  Washington  and  was 
ordained  by  the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning,  May  11,  1875.  He  was 
married  October  12,  1876,  to  Miss  Anna  M.  Shoemaker.  Mr. 
Baker  was  married  a  second  time,  October  18,  1887,  to  Mi&s 
Susanna  M.  Barkman, 

For  almost  a  year  after  Mr,  Baker's  resignation,  the  Appleby 
^anor  congregation  was  without  a  pastor.  The  people  at  length, 
April  28,  1885,  secured  the  services  of  the  Rev.  Samuel  J.  Glass, 
pastor  of  the  Second  Presbj/terian  Church  of  Kittanning,  for  one- 
iourth  time,  which  relation  continued  to  October  12,  1886,  when 
Mr.  Glass  accepted  a  call  to  the  Presbyterian  church  of  Knoxville, 
Pittsburgh.     He  is  now  pastor  at  Brookville,  Pa. 

Rev.  De  Witt  M.  Ben  ham,  the  present  pastor,  was  installed 
over  the  Second  Presbyterian  Church  of  Kittanning,  and  the  church 
of  Appleby  IManor,  November  1,  1887. 

For  a  further  notice  of  the  last  two  pastors  see  the  history  of 
the  Second  Presbyterian  Church  of  Kittanning. 

Mr.  John  Christy  was  the  first  elder  of  the  Manor  church,  and 
for  some  time  the  only  one.  Mr.  Christy  was  ordained  in  1843  at 
the  time  of  the  organization  of  the  church,  and  after  a  life  full  of 
good  works,  this  faithful  servant  of  God  died  at  an  advance!  age, 
April  1,1887.  Air.  William  F.  Logan  was  ordained  an  elder  in 
1865,  Mr.  John  H.  Huston  in  1871,  and  Mr.  Stephen  H.  Christy  in 
1885. 

Sabbath  School  is  held  nine  months  in  the  year.  The  present 
superintendent  is  Mr.  John  Logan.  His  predecessors  in  oflice  were 
Mr.  John  Christy,  Mr.  John  H.  Huston,  Mr.  Thomas  James,  Mr, 
Stephen  H.  Christy. 


I'tO  HISTORY    OF    THE 


ATWOOD 


TTTT  T  TTTTTTTTTTT 


ftV    REV.    NEWTON    B.    KELLY. 


ORGANIZATTON. 

Early  in  March,  1873,  Rev.  Andrew  Virtue  began  to  preach  m 
the  school  house  at  the  village  of  Atwood,  He  was  then  askecfi 
{or  a  part  of  his  time,  a  number  of  families  being  desirous  of  having 
services  held  and  looking  to  the  organization  of  a  Presbyteriare 
church.  Mr.  Virtue  preached  twice  a  month  on  Sabbath  after- 
noons. In  February,  1874,  there  was  a  special  interest  manifested 
under  his  ministry,  and  soon  after  it  was  decided  to  take  steps 
toward  the  organization  of  a  church.  In  April  a  memorial  was 
sent  up  to  Presbytery.  A  committee  was  appointed  by  Presbytery 
which,  having  visited  and  looked  over  the  ground,  recommended 
that  the  request  be  granted. 

By  order  of  Presbytery  a  committee  consisting  of  Rev.  Andrew- 
Virtue,  Rev.  W.  F.  Morgan  and  Mr,  James  L,  Lewis,  met  at 
Atwood  on  September  18,  1874.  Rtv.  W.  F.  Morgan  preached  the 
sermon  and  Rev.  A.  Virtue  presided.  The  church  of  Atwood 
was  organized  with  thirty-two  members  as  follows; 

ORIGINAL    MEMBERS. 

From  Rural  Valley  Church :  A.  A.  Marshall,  Sarah  Mar- 
shall, Alexander  Guthrie,  Nancy  Guthrie,  Mary  McCausland,  Mar- 
garet McCausland,  Washington  McLaughlin,  Mary  O.  McLaugh- 
lin, William  McCausland,  Elizabeth  McCausland,  Mary  A.  Mc- 
McCausland,    Andrew     Campbell,    Emma     L.     Campbell,    John 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTATSINING.  Ill 

■Outhrie,  Fanny  Guthrie,  Jesse  Henderson,  Jane  Henderson,  James 
Campbell,  Rachel  Camjibel),  Sarah  A.  Guthrie,  George  Campbell 
'Catharine  Campbell. 

From  Centre  Church:  Moses  Foreman,  Rachel  Foreman, 
Violet  Foreman,  William  Lewis,  Mary  Lewis,  Matilda  Dodson, 

From  other  chjirches :  Charlotte  Jamison,  John  lilystone, 
ISIary  Bly stone,  Horace  Harding, 

CHURCH    EDIFICE. 

In  1879  a  frame  building  was  erected  at  a  co.-t  of  $2,000.  The 
people  found  it  difficult  to  complete  this  house  of  worship,  but 
finally  by  selt-denial  and  devotion  to  their  purpose  they  got  it 
painted  without  and  beautifully  fitted  up  within.  They  have 
recently  add-ed  pulpit  furniture,  and  now  have  one  of  the  prettic'yt 
-churches  in  this  region.     It  is  35  x  45  feel>, 

MINISTERS. 

Rev.  Andrew  Virtue  is  the  man  who  brought  this  church  into 
existence,  and  th.e  man  by  whose  energy  and  skill  it  was  housed. 
He  is  now  laboring  in  West  Virginia.  Rev.  N,  B.  Kelly  is  the 
first  pastor.  He  began  to  preach  in  February,  1887.  In  the  fol- 
lowing Ma*-ch  there  was  a  revival  and  twenty -six  united  with  the 
•church.  Mr.  Kellv  wa^  installed  December  ],  1887.  He  preache•^ 
one-third  ot  his  time  at  Atwootl  and  the  remainder  at  Rural  Valley. 

EEDERS. 

At  the  time  of  organization  two  elders  vv'ere  cliosen  and 
installeil,  Archibald  A.  Marshall  and  Wra.  Lewis,  Wm.  A.  Prugh 
and  Miller  M.  Moorhead  were  inducted  into  oflice  November  6, 
1880.  The  last  named  has  recently  removed,  and  the  other  three 
constitute  the  present  session  of  which  Mr.  Lewis  is  clerk. 

STATISTICS. 

The  whole  number  of  members  has  been  196.  The  number  ■^^. 
pi'esent  is  107,   Sixteen  adults  and  104  children  have  been  baptized. 


I1'2  HISTORY    OF    THE 


BETHEL 


TTTTTTTT  TTT  TTTTT 


BY    REV.    R.    H.    FULTON. 


ORGAXIZATION    AND    EDIFICES. 


As  nearly  as  can  be  ascertained  this  church  was  organized  m 
the  year  1790.  The  "  History  of  Old  Redstone"  says:  "George 
Hill,  grandfather  of  Rev,  George  Hill,  of  Blairsville,  was  licensed^ 
December  22,  1791,  at  the  church  of  Bethel,  Indiana  county,  where 
the  Rev.  J.  W.  Henderson  was  afterwards  settled."  The  minutes 
of  Redstone  Presbytery  show  that  at  its  meeting  at  Pigeon  Creek^ 
October  16,  1702,  a  call  was  presented  from  the  churches  of  Bethel 
and  Ebenezer  for  the  ministerial  services  of  Mr.  Marquis.  This 
call  was  declined. 

Bethel  continued  on  the  roll  of  supplies  until  the  year  1798, 
when  the  Rev.  Joseph  W.  Henderson  became  its  first  pastor,  the 
church  of  Ebenezer  being  connected  with  it.  The  territory 
included  within  the  l)ounds  of  Bethel  was  settled  largely  by  Scotch- 
Irish  Presbyterians  who,  whilst  they  hewed  their  homes  out  of  the 
wilderness,  made  provision  likewise  for  the  preaching  of  the  gospel. 
It  is  handed  down  from  father  to  son  that  the  early  supplies^ 
preached  in  a  barn  belonging  to  Major  McCombs,  within  one  mile 
of  the  present  site.  Here  a  tent  was  at  first  erected  for  the  minis- 
ter, around  which  the  congregation  gathered,  some  seated  on  the 
ground  and  others  standing,  as  circumstances  determined. 

About  the  year  1797  a  log  house  was  built.  It  was  commodious 
in  arrangement  and  fashioned  after  the  most  improved  style  of  the 
times.     The   pulpit  occupied    a  place    in    the    center    of   one    side 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  113 

where  there  was  a  recess  in  the  wall.  A  corresponding  recess  was 
also  made  in  the  opposite  wall  and  facing  the  pulpit.  In  this  latter 
recess  was  a  front  door  entrance.  A  door  at  each  end  also  opened 
into  the  church.  Seats  were  arranged  facing  the  center  of  the  build- 
ing. At  the  first,  however,  the  enclosure  was  without  either  seats, 
floor  or  stoves,  and  eye  witnesses  have  testified  to  those  still  remain- 
ing that  the  minister  frequenely  preached  in  overcoat  and  mittens, 
the  hearers  making  themselves  comfortable  as  best  they  could, 
stamping  the  ground  and  swinging  their  arms  around  their  bodies. 
In  the  jear  1842  a  frame  building  was  erected,  being  in  size  fifty 
feet  by  sixty.  This  house  fronted  to  the  south  as  did  the  former 
log  building,  and  was  furnished  after  the  manner  of  its  time  with 
smooth  flooring,  pews  and  stoves. 

MEMBERSHIP. 

The  original  boundary  was  very  extensive  and  yet  the  member- 
ship never  became  very  great,  owing  to  the  many  other  church 
organizations  that  in  time  sprung  up  and  still  remain.  These 
drew  so  largely  in  all  directions  from  this  mother  church  that  dis- 
solution was  apprehended.  But  she  still  lives  and  flourishes  like 
the  tree  planted  by  the  rivers  of  waters,  and  is  bringing  forth 
abundant  fruit.  In  the  year  1834,  there  were  enrolled  136  mem- 
bers. In  1836  they  numbered  160.  By  1842  they  were  reduced 
to  142.  Since  that  time  the  membership  has  ranged  from  160  to 
110.  At  present  writing  the  roll  calls  for  125,  but  the  visible  and 
active  membership  is  somewhat  less. 

ELDERS. 

There  have  been  ruling  elders  in  Bethel  as  follows:  Gen. 
Michael  Campbell,  Gen.  James  McCombs,  John  Allison,  Mr. 
Sample,  John  Lewis,  Maj.  James  Laughery,  William  Hamilton, 
John  Robinson,  William  Anthony,  Thomas  Hamilton,  Evans 
Lewis,  Joseph  Henderson,  James  Hunter,  Alexander  McMullin, 
James  McKee,  William  Carson,  N.  P.  Turner,  William  Johnson, 
James  Reed,  Robert  McCluskey,  J.  L.  Robinson,  Thomas  Hamil- 
ton, Daniel  Wilson,  S.  W.  Johnson.  Present  session — ^Jeremiah 
Lomison,  John  Shields,  James  W.  George,  Harrison  KaufTman, 
Robert  O.  Allison, 

15 


114  >IISTORY    OF    THE 


MINISTERS. 


Rev.  Joseph  W.  Henderson  ministered  to  the  people  from 
1798  to  1828,  or  for  the  period  of  twenty-five  years.  To  him  as  a 
minister  and  as  a  man  is  duly  ascribed  much  of  that  good  degree  o^ 
moral  and  religious  influence  that  has  usually  prevailed  in  this  region 
of  Indiana  county.  Those  who  knew  him  best  always  spoke  of  him 
in  terms  of  highest  commendation.  Taking  high  moral  grounds, 
he  advocated  total  abstinence  from  all  intoxicating  drinks  at  a  time 
when  the  evil  was  prevalent  and  of  high  C:Ocial  standing.  The 
cause  of  missions  found  in  him  an  ardent  supporter.  In  the  cause 
of  education,  the  general  intelligence  of  the  people  and  the  good  of 
society  at  large  he  took  a  deep  interest.  He  died  September  19th, 
1835,  in  the  eighty-fourth  year  of  his  age,  and  twelve  years  after 
resigning  his  pastoral  charge.  He  was  buried  in  Bethel  grave 
yard,  and  "  his  sepulcher  is  with  us  to  this  day." 

Rev.  Jesse  Smith  became  the  second  pastor.  He  was  a  man  of 
good  natural  abilities  and  high  scholarly  attainments;  but,  alas  for 
the  tempter!  He  fell  a  victim  to  strong  drink.  Continuing  about 
eight  years  pastor,  he  was  deposed  from  the  gospel  ministry  for  the 
sin  of  intemperance,  and  never  restored. 

Rev.  Robert  Johnston  came  to  Bethel,  November  1838.  The 
following  spring  he  accepted  a  call,  and  was  settled  as  regular 
pastor.  He  remained  until  October,  1841,  when,  on  account  of  old 
age  and  other  minor  reasons,  he  resigned  the  charge.  His  ministry 
was  active  and  useful  here  and  elsewhere,  and  his  labor ^  greatly 
blessed,  especially  in  the  church  of  Scrubgrass,  where  a  powerful 
revival  occurred  during  his  pastorate  there.  He  was  a  man  of 
strong  convictions  and  unsparing  in  denunciation  of  what  he 
believed  to  be  wrong.  By  this  means  he  frequently  encountered 
opposition,  and  drove  from  the  church  some  who  could  not  endure 
strong  meat.  Bethel  was  his  last  charge.  Living  to  a  good  old 
age  he  testified  to  the  grace  of  God  through  all  his  life,  and  died 
in  the  full  faith  of  the  gospel  he  so  long  preached  to  others. 

After  Mr.  Johnston  came  the  Rev.  R.  VV.  Orr,  a  returned 
missionary  from  China.  He,  as  a  stated  supply,  ministered  to  the 
people  for  about  one  year. 

As  the  fourth  pastor  came  the  Rev.  John  Cross.  In  the  spring 
of  1845  he  was  settled  as  pastor  over  Bethel  and  Ebenezer.      This 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  115 

relation  continued  until  the  fall  of  1850.  Mr.  Cross  was  a  most 
faithful  and  laborious  pastor.  A  foreigner  by  birth  and  education, 
and  unacquainted  with  the  ways  of  the  people,  he  labored  at  times 
under  disadvantage.  He  maintained  a  high  scriptural  standard  ot 
piety.  His  earnest  efforts  to  bring  the  members  of  his  charge  up 
to  this  high  ideal  in  the  Christian  life  gave  offence  to  some  of  the 
more  worldly  minded  members  in  the  church.  These,  by  their 
opposition,  succeeded  in  driving  him  away  from  his  charge.  The 
opposition  came  chiefly  from  the  other  part  of  his  field  of  labor. 
He  was  truly  a  godly  man.  Not  long  after  quitting  his  charge 
he  returned  to  Scotland,  his  native  land,  where  in  a  few  years  he 
died. 

For  some  three  years  following  the  pastorate  of  Mr.  Cross,  the 
church  of  Bethel  was  served  by  supplies.  Ot  these  were  Rev. 
S.  P.  Bollman,  J.  Brown,  Wm.  Colledge  and  others. 

In  April,  1855,  Rev.  Franklin  Orr,  a  licentiate  of  the  Presby- 
tery of  Clarion,  and  coming  from  the  Western  Theological 
Seminary  at  Allegheny,  preached  six  months  as  stated  supply.  A 
call  was  then  received  and  accepted  for  half  time  in  connection 
with  Currie's  Run  for  the  other  half,  each  promising  $250  of  a 
salary.  On  November  9th,  1855,  Mr.  Orr  was  ordained  and 
installed  pastor,  Rev.  George  Hill  presiding  and  proposing  the 
constitutional  questions,  Rev.  A.  McElwain  preaching  the  sermon. 
Rev.  George  Morton  charging  the  pastor,  and  Rev.  George  Hill 
the  people.  The  call  was  twice  modified.  In  1855,  it  was  changed 
from  one-half  to  two-thirds  time,  and  the  salaiy  advanced  from  time 
to  time  until  it  reached  $600  for  two-thirds  time.  In  1876  it  was 
restored  to  half  time,  and  the  salary  fixed  at  $500.  This  relation 
continued  until  April  1st,  1877.  Mr.  Orr  still  remains  a  member 
of  Kittannnig  Presbytery,  and  is  laboring  within  its  bounds.  The 
writer  of  this,  when  a  boy  in  Ebenezer,  knew  the  Rev.  Mr. 
Orr  and  heard  him  preach.  And  now  himself  the  pastor  of 
Bethel  and  Homer  churches,  he  can  testify  to  the  fact  that  Mr. 
Orr  can  still  come  among  his  former  people,  receiving  the  kindest 
greeting,  with  manifest  loving  regard  for  his  labors  of  love  during 
a  pastorate  of  twenty-two  years. 

At  the  close  of  this  last  pastorate  there  began  a  term  occupied 
in  order  by  the  following  named  snpplies:  Revs.  J.  S.  Axtell,  J.  N. 
Diament,  Carl  Moore,  Mr.  Wolf,  A.  H.  Donaldson,  A.  B.  Wilson. 


116  HISTORY    OF    THE 


In  the  fall  of  1879,  Rev.  John  Gourley  came  to  the  field  as 
pastor  elect,  preaching  his  first  sermon,  September  23d,  1877.  The 
writer  was  a  classmate  of  Mr.  Gourley  at  the  Western  Thrological 
Seminary.  An  earnest,  devout  and  spiritually  minded  man,  his 
labors  here  were  blessed,  and  he  is  still  held  in  respectful  and  loving 
regard  by  the  people.  He  was  released  from  Bethel,  June  26th, 
1883,  but  remained  on  the  field  until  the  latter  part  of  Jul  v. 

Rev.  J.  H.  Bausman  came  to  the  field  as  pastor  elect  September, 
1883,  and  was  installed  January  31st,  1884.  During  a  series  of 
special  meetings  in  the  month  of  February  there  were  received 
into  the  church,  on  profession  of  their  faiih  in  Chri«;t,  thirty  mem- 
bers. In  the  year  1886,  a  new  church  building  was  erected.  It  is 
a  frame  structure,  neat  and  substantial,  capable  ot  seating  three 
hundred  to  three  hundred  and  fifty  persons.  The  total  cost  was 
$3,000.  In  the  latter  part  of  August,  1886,  it  was  dedicated  to 
the  worship  of  God,  free  from  debt. 

Recent  changes  in  the  eldership  are  noted  as  follows:  George 
Johnston  died  October  14th,  1881 ;  Daniel  Wilson  died  August  9th, 
1885.  James  George  and  Robert  O.  Allison  were  chosen  ruling 
elders  May  30th,  1885.  These  were  ordained  and  installed  July 
12th,  1885.     Mr.  Allison  is  Superintendent  of  the  Sabbath  School. 

Mr.  Bausman  was  released  from  his  charge  of  Bethel  and 
Homer  in  April,  1887. 

As  to  the  ministers  mentioned  in  the  foregoing  it  is  due  to  say 
here,  that  the  people  give  willing  testimony  to  the  varied  good 
qualities  of  all  within  their  recollection.  And  we  cannot  refrain 
from  suggesting  the  probable  injury  to  the  spiritual  tone,  and 
threatening  to  the  future  of  all  churches  thus  subjected  to  frequent 
changes  of  their  pastorates. 

Rev.  R.  H.  Fulton,  licensed  by  the  Presbyteiy  of  Blairsville  in 
April,  1876,  ordained  by  the  Presbytery  of  Pittsburgh,  May  7th, 
1887,  is  the  present  pastor  of  Bethel  and  Homer  churches  in  com- 
bined charge.  Having  preached  to  both  churches  on  the  first  and 
second  Sabbaths  of  September,  1887,  calls  unanimous  were  made 
out.  Mr.  Fulton  having  signified  his  willingness  to  accept,  his 
installation  over  the  two  churches  took  place  in  each  church  January 
31,  1888.  Services  are  held  one  at  each  church  ever}'  Sabbath  in 
connection  with  the  Sabbath  School.  Interest  is  strongly  mani- 
fested, and    the   people  are  very  faithful    in    attendance.       A  good 


PRESRYTERY    OF    KITTAXNING.  117 

work  is  bemg  clone  through  the  aid  of  the  Women^s  Societies  for 
the  cause  of  missions  at  home  and  abroad.  Ample  grounds  of 
about  five  acres,  more  or  less,  are  also  the  property  of  the  church. 
The  latest  miprovement  is  an  addition  on  the  north  side  to  the 
fence,  so  that  now  a  beautiful,  white  pale  fence  surrounds  the 
church  on  the  north  east  and  south  sides,  running  well  back  to  the 
west.  The  church  has  one  entrance,  and  fronts  to  the  east;  pulpit 
platform  in  the  west  end,  organ  and  choir  space  to  the  right, 
upholstered  pulpit  set.  The  site  is  in  the  midst  of  an  ancient 
forest  of  majestic  oaks,  and  tlie  surrounding  prospect  is  ver}'  fine; 
beautiful  for  situation,  the  joy  of  all  her  people  is  Bethel  of 
Indiana  county,  Pa.  May  the  Lord  continue  to  water  this  portion 
of  his  vineyard  with  showers  of  blessings,  that  much  fruit  may  be 
gathered  unto  the  Master,  is  the  earnest  prayer  of  his  servant — the 
pastor. 


tl8  HISTORY    OF    THE 


BETHESDA„ 


TTTTTTTrTTTTTTTT 


BY    REV.    B.    SHIELDS    SI.OAN. 


TYTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


Bethesda  church  is  situated  about  sixteen  miles  east  of  Indiana, 
Indiana  county,  Pa.  This  church  was  an  offshoot  of  Harmony 
Church.  It  was  orjjanized,  December  5th,  1857,  by  a  committee  of 
ihe  Presbytery  of  Saltsburg,  (now  Kittanning^)  consisting  of  Rev. 
J.  H.  Kirkpatrick,  Rev.  John  Caruthers  and  Elder  E.  B. 
Camp.  Mr.  Caruthers  preached  a  sermon,  after  which  the 
church  was  or<ranized,  with  twenty-two  members.  Some  of  the 
original  members  were  John  and  David  Martin,  Alexander 
Stepliens,  Lewis  Coy,  James  Elwood,  Mr.  Thomas,  Mr.  Williams, 
Mr.  Roberts,  together  with  their  wives. 

GROUND. 

The  lot  on  which  the  church  stood  was  given  as  long  as  used 
for. church  purposes,  and  when  deserted,  was  to  fall  back  to  the 
original  owner. 

,  CHURCH    BUII>DING. 

The  congregation  erected  on  this  lot  a  frame  building  25  by  35 
feet,  costing  $400  or  $500.  This  was  the  only  building  on  this 
lot,  and  it  was  burnt  down  by  a  forest  fire  in  1883.  The  congre- 
gation then  made  arrangements  with  the  Welsh  Calvinistic  Metho- 
dists to  worship  in  their  house,  about  two  miles  from  the  old  ground, 
and  they  remain  there  to  this  day. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  119 


PASTORS    AND    SUPPI.IES. 

This  church  has  never  had  a  regular  pastor.  Rev.  J.  H. 
Kirkpatrick  was  stated  supply  from  1857  to  1860,  and  Rev.  J.  P. 
Kennedy  from  I860  to  1868.  Rev.  S.  S.  VVylie  supplied  the  sum- 
mers of  1869  and  1870,  antl  Rev.  Thomas  Parry  the  summ-er  of 
1871.  Rev.  B.  Shields  Sloan  became  stated  supply  one-fourth 
time  from  1872  to  1882.  Rev.  Julius  Spencer  was  stated  supply 
from  1882  to  1885.  Since  that  time  the  church  has  had  only 
■occasional  supplies  appointed  by  the  Presbytery. 

ELDERS. 

At  the  time  of  organization  the  elders  ordained  and  installed 
were  Alexander  Stephens,  Lewis  Coy,  James  Dunwoody  and 
John  Martin,  the  last  of  whom  died  in  1885.  On  September  9th, 
1888,  Richard  D.Williams,  Robert  M.  Williams  and  John  D. 
Martin  were  added  to  the  session. 

GROWTH    OF    CHURCH. 

In  1857,  there  were  twenty -two  members;  in  1876,  sixty-two 
members,  and  in  1886,  seventy-six  members.  The  number  reported 
for  1888  is  sixty- six.  This  church  of  thirty  years  has  not  had  a 
rapid  growth,  3'et  it  has  helped  onward  the  cause  of  the  Master. 


120  HfSTORV    OF    THE 


BLACKLICK„ 


BY    REV.    D.    H.    SLOAN. 


This  church  is  located  on  the  creek,  and  in  the  village  whose 
name  it  bears,  in  the  southern  part  of  Indiana  county.  It  was- 
organized  by  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville,  October  31,  1867,  with 
twenty-tour  members.  For  a  time  it  was  statedly  supplied  by  Rev. 
James  Davis.  It  was  also  supplied  for  a  time  by  Rev.  James  R. 
Hughes  while  he  was  principal  of  the  Blairsville  Ladies'  Seminary, 
Mr.  D.  G.  Robinson  became  its  pastor  b}'  ordination  and  installa- 
tion, February  2, 1871.  He  served  also  as  supply  to  the  new  organ- 
ization at  Homer  City.  The  church  of  Blacklick  being  in  the 
Presbytery  of  Blairsville,  steps  were  being  taken  to  have  the 
Homer  church  set  over  ecclesiastically  to  that  Presbytery,  but 
"  before  the  Assembly  met,  pulmonary  disease  running  a  rapid 
race,  had  brought  to  an  early  end  his  promising  labors  and  life 
April  3,  1873."  Further  notice  of  him  maybe  found  in  connection 
with  the  church  of  Homer.   , 

The  church  of  Blacklick  belongs  geographically  to  Blairsville 
Presbytery,  its  connections  vvuth  Kittanning  being  only  incidental 
and  temporary.  April  7th,  1874,  the  church  of  Homer  presented 
to  the  Presbytery  a  call  for  the  service  of  Mr.  J.  S.  Axtell  then  a 
licentiate  of  Wooster  Presbytery,  and  was  granted  leave  to  prose- 
cute said  call  in  the  latter  Presbytery.  Mr.  Axtell,  however,  was 
dismissed  by  the  Presbytery  of  Wooster  to  the  Presbytery  of 
Blairsville,  which  ordained  him  and  installed  him  pastor  of  both 
Blacklick  and  Homer,  July  28th,  1874.  To  this  action  the  Presby- 
tery of  Kittanning  took  exception  so  far  as  it  related  to  the  church 
of  Homer.     Correspondence  between  the  two  Presbyteries  ensued. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  121 

The  Kittanning  Presbytery,  joined  b}'^  Clarion  and  Blairsville, 
overtured  the  Assembly  of  1874  for  a  rule  for  the  formation  of 
pastoral  charges  in  such  cases,  and  the  following  was  adopted,  viz: 
"  When  two  churches  in  different  Presbyteries  or  Synods  are  so 
situated  as  to  make  it  apparent  to  the  Presbyleries  to  which  they 
belong  that  they  should  be  united  in  one  pastoral  charge,  the 
pastoral  relation  may  be  constituted,  and  both  churches  shall,  for 
tlie  time  being,  be  under  the  care  of  that  Presbytery  of  which  the 
pastor  is  a  member,  and  this  Presbyterial  relation  shall  continue 
only  so  long  a?  they  retain  the  same  pastor."  Mr.  Axtell  having 
his  residence  at  Homer,  and  this  circumstance  determining  his 
proper  connection  to  be  with  the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning,  at 
length,  July  13,  1876,  he  was  ixceived  and  enrolled  by  this  Presbj^- 
tery.  Mr.  Axtell  had  in  the  mean  time  been  released  by  the 
Presbytery  of  Blairsville  from  Blacklick.  His  pastorate  at  Homer 
continued  until  October  17,  1877,  when  he  was  released  at  his  own 
request.    He  has  since  had  charges  at  Clyde  and  at  Celina,  O. 

On  the  10th  of  July,  1878,  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville  having 
signified  its  willingness  that  the  church  of  Blacklick  should  be 
transferred  to  this  Presbytery  with  a  view  to  the  constituion  of  a 
pastoral  charge,  it  was  accordingly  enrolled,  and  a  call  from  it  was 
presented  for  the  services  of  Rev.  John  Gourley,  then  pastor  at 
Bethel,  where  he  was  ordained  and  installed  June  6th,  1878.  This 
call  he  accepted,  and  his  installation  at  Blacklick  took  place  Sep- 
tember 5th,  1878,  Dr.  Donaldson  presiding  and  preaching  the 
sermon,  Rev.  F.  Orr  giving  the  charge  to  the  pastor,  and  Dr. 
Woodend  to  the  people.  Mr.  Gourley  was  released  from  this  part 
of  his  charge  with  a  view  to  accept  a  call  from  Homer,  June  30th, 
1880.  He  left  the  Presbytery  October  15,  1883.  He  has  since 
had  charges  at  South  Lyon,  Mich.,  and  at  Lewistown,  Pa.  On 
the  release  of  Mr.  Gourley  from  this  church  in  1880,  it  fell  back  to 
the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville  by  the  rule  of  the  Assem.bly. 

The  elders  chosen  at  the  organization  of  this  church  were  John 
Wright,  James  H.  Fair  and  F.  M.  Kinter.  It  was  reported  in 
1887  with  forty-eight  members  and  Rev.  W.  B.  Carr  as  a  stated 
supply. 


16 


122  HISTORY    OF    THE 


BOILING  SPRING. 


BY  REV.  J.  Q.  A.  FULLERTON. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


The  Boiling  Spring  church  was  formally  organized  in  the  year 
1840,  in  the  house  of  Charles  Means,  now  the  residence  of  William 
Gallagher.  It  was  constituted  with  about  twenty-five  members, 
only  one  of  whom,  Mr.  Joseph  Wilson,  is  now  in  connection  with 
the  church.  Among  those  original  members  were  William  James, 
Isaac  Warner,  Raymond  Dentzel,  Hon.  Robt.  M.  Beatty,  Hugh 
Graham,  John  Leech,  Adam  Ashbaugh,  Wm.  Ashbaugh,  Daniel 
Deemer,  Mrs.  Margaret  Scott,  Samuel  Martin,  Andrew  Miller, 
Sr.,  David  Risher,  Joseph  Wilson,  William  Wilson,  John  Wilson, 
Charles  Means,  William  Gallaher,  and  Joseph  McGeary.  The 
church  was  made  up  almost  entirely  from  the  Apollo  congregation 
and  was  regarded  as  a  branch  of  that  church.  The  first  elders 
were  Joseph  Wilson,  Charles  Means,  Joseph  McGeary  and  Wm. 
Gallagher.  The  Messrs,  Means  and  McGeary  were  very  active  in 
promoting  the  interests  of  the  church  and  its  early  prosperity  may 
be  largely  accredited  to  them.  About  1842  Messrs.  Gallagher  and 
Means  ceased  to  act. 

The  Rev.  Levi  M.  Graves  was  the  first  pastor.  This  church 
with  Apollo  constituted  his  charge.  He  was  installed  in  June, 
1840.  He  purchased  the  property  now  occupied  by  Dr.  Beatty, 
where  he  lived  while  pastor.  He  was  a  man  of  very  decided 
character  and  lively  disposition.  Classes  in  music  were  taught  by 
him,  and  Mr.  Wm.  James,  one  of  his  pupils,  became  one  of  the 
leaders  of  the  singing  in  this  congregation.  He  married  Miss 
Smith,    of     Crooked    Creek,    and,    resigning  his  charge    in  1843, 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  3  23 

removed  to  that  point  where  he  served  the  Presbyterian  church. 
With  man}'^  intermissions  on  account  of  ill  health  he  continued  to 
preach  until  his  death  in  1881.  The  only  church  building  then  in 
this  vicinity  was  a  "  Union  Church,"  erected  in  1840,  being  a  frame 
structure  of  about  45  x  60  feet.  It  stood  in  about  the  present  loca- 
tion of  the  Presbyterian  church.  It  was  used  in  connection  with 
the  German  Reformed  and  Lutheran  congregations.  The  mem- 
bers of  the  Germ^an  Reformed  church  generally  became  members 
of  the  Presbyterian  church.  This  building  was  finally  sold,  and 
for  the  sum  of  about  $175  was  purchased  by  the  Presbyterian  con- 
gregation. Soon  afterward  the  Presbyterians  and  Lutherans 
separately  erected  churches. 

There  were  not  then  the  same  conveniences  that  we  now 
possess  for  attending  church,  and  the  members  came  either  on  foot 
or  on  horseback.  The  best,  or  "  Sab^'ath  day  shoes  "  were  carefully 
saved,  and  many  of  the  women  walked  barefooted  from  their 
homes  until  near  the  church  when  the  shoes  and  stockings  were 
drawn  on,  but  they  were  soon  off  again  after  the  service  and  on 
the  return  home. 

Communions  were  held  in  the  fall  and  spring.  Fast  day  with 
preaching  was  held  on  Thursday,  followed  by  preaching  on  Satur- 
day before  communion  on  the  Sabbath.  Tokens  of  admission  to 
communion  were  disti-ibuted  to  the  members  on  Saturday.  These 
consisted  of  leaden  medals  about  the  size  of  a  nickel  with  the 
letters  "  B.  S.,"  (Boiling  vSpring)  stamped  upon  them.  In  the  old 
church  four  benches  about  ten  feet  long  and  a  little  higher  than 
those  sat  upon  were  arranged  in  front  of  the  pulpit,  and  white 
cloths  being  spread  upon  them  the  communicants  arranged  them- 
selves before  them.  The  elders  then  passed  around  and  collected 
the  tokens,  after  which  the  communion  proceeded. 

The  singing  was  at  first  led  by  clerks  who  stood  in  front  of  the 
congregation.  Wm.  James,  David  Risher,  S.  F.  Steck  and 
Joseph  Wilson,  were  among  those  who  aided  in  this  respect.  In 
1842  David  Risher  was  elected  as  ruling  elder  and  served  about 
twelve  years,  when  he  removed.  A  few  years  later  Solomon  F. 
Steck  was  called  to  the  same  office  and  served  till  his  removal 
in  1860. 

The  Rev.  Mr.  Gi^aves  was  followed  by  the  Rev.  Cyrus  B. 
Bristol,  who  was  regularly  installed  in  1846  over  the  same  charge, 


124  HISTORY    OF    THE 


and  his  pastorate  continued  for  about  ten  years,  or  till  1856.  He 
preached  here  and  at  Apollo  on  alternate  Sabbaths.  The  residence 
now  occupied  by  widow  Cochran  was  owned  by  him,  and  he  j^ave 
considerable  time  to  farminj^  the  surrounding^  land.  Mr.  Bristol 
was  a  "  quiet "  preacher  but  a  good,  honest  man,  and  the  growth  of 
the  church  was  slow,  bur  regular,  during  his  pastorate.  He  intro- 
duced the  choir  and  also  the  Sabbath  School,  which  was  kept  up 
during  the  summer  season. 

April  80,  1855,  John  T.  Herrold,  \Vm.  Leech  and  Labanah 
Townsen  were  ordained  as  ruling  elders.  Mr.  Herrold  died 
August  9,  1886;  Mr.  Leech  served  till  his  removal  eight  or  ten 
years  after  his  induction  into  office,  and  Mr.  Townsen  until  his  dis- 
missal to  Elder's  Ridge  in  1865. 

The  next  pastorate  was  filled  by  the  Rev.  Jas.  E.  Caruthers 
and  in  connection  with  the  church  of  Leechburg  where  he  lived. 
He  was  installed  in  the  charge  at  this  place  May  12,  1859.  He 
was  a  man  of  superior  talent  as  a  preacher,  and  was  very  out- 
spoken. His  trenchant  utterances  during  the  excitement  of  v\  ar 
times,  being  awakened  by  his  intense  loyalty,  were  very  stirring. 
He  resigned  tliis  chureh  to  give  his  whole  time  to  Leechburg,  and 
was  released  April  23,  1867. 

In  1865  Samuel  Thompson  was  received  from  Elder's  Ridge 
and  served  a^  an  elder  to  1887  when    he   was  dismissed  to   Apollo. 

The  church  now  enters  upon  a  vacancy  of  eight  years.  During 
this  period  Mr.  T.  R.  Ewing,  a  licentiate  of  the  Presbytery, 
supplied  the  church  three  montlis  in  the  early  part  of  1868,  and 
Mr.  W.  W.  McLane,  also  a  licentiate,  for  about  fifteen  or  eighteen 
months  preceding  Aj^ril,  1873.  Aside  from  these  periods  of  service 
the  church  had  only  occasioned  supplies.  It  was  during  this  long 
vacancy  that  the  present  house  ot  worship  was  erected.  It  was 
dedicated  September  21,  1871,  the  sermon  being  preached  by  Rev. 
Dr.  Donaldson.  In  his  historical  sketch  of  the  church  in  1873, 
Dr.  D.  remarks,  *' For  its  limited  advantages  it  is  a  nol)le  congre- 
gation." 

The  next  pastor,  the  Rev.  Perrin  Baker,  now  of  Belle  Vernon, 
Pa.,  was  installed  in  connection  with  two  other  churches.  Crooked 
Creek  and  Appleby  Manor,  x\pril  11,  1875.  He  made  his  resi- 
dence in  the  midst  of  this  congregation,  and  married  Miss  Mary 
Shoemaker,  a  daughter  of  one  of  our  residents,  the  late  Mr.  Joseph 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  125 

Shoemaker.  His  labors  were  very  efficient  and  acceptable.  Mr. 
Baker  was  released  from  his  charge  of  this  church  July  10,  1878, 
giving  afterward  his  entire  time  to  the  other  churches  of  his 
charge. 

Following  the  Rev.  Air.  Baker,  the  Rev.  Hezekiah  Magill 
served  this  church  us  supply  in  connection  with  Apollo  during  the 
years  1877-79.  The  Woman's  Foreign  Missionary  Society  was 
■organized  in  the  fall  of:  1874,  and  the  organization  still  prospers. 
The  first  President  was  Mrs.  H.  M.  Scott,  while  Mrs.  Eliza  M. 
Walker  now  presides  over  the  interests  of  this  society;  the  other 
officers  being  Miss  Carrie  Orr,  vSecretary,  and  Mrs.  Margaret  Y. 
Walker,  Treasurer. 

In  October,  1879,  Robt.  P.  Walker,  Abm.  A.  Warner  and  J. 
Thompson  Jackson  were  inducted  into  the  eldership.  Of  these, 
Mr.  Walker  died  July  21,  1884,  and  Mr.  Warner  July  26,  1886. 

The  Rev.  Samuel  E.  Elliott  succeeded  Rev.  Mr.  Magill  and 
was  the  stated  supply  of  this  church  from  July  1,  1880,  to  October 
7,  1884.  Mr.  Elliott,  like  Mr.  Magill,  made  his  home  in  Apollo, 
and  preached  at  Boiling  Spring  on  alternate  Sabbaths  in  the  after- 
noon, as  service  is  at  present  conducted.  Mr.  Elliott  is  now  pastor 
at  Mt.  Pleasant,  Pa. 

On  January  14,  1885,  the  Rev.  J.  Q.  A.  Fullerton  was  installed 
pastoi",  he  making  his  lesidence  in  Apollo,  to  which  he  gives  the 
three-fourths  of  his  time.  Soon  after  his  coming  there  was  an 
addition  to  the  church  of  about  forty  members  on  confession  of 
faith.  The  choir,  with  Miss  Carrie  Orr  at  the  organ,  is  well  main- 
tained in  numbers  and  sustains  the  music  very  creditably. 

February  13,  1887,  were  added  to  the  eldership  Geo.  W.  Wil- 
son and  J.  F.  Amment,  who,  with  Joseph  Wilson  and  J.  Thomp- 
son Jackson,  clerk,  constitute  the  present  session. 

During  this  pastorate  the  church  has  been  called  to  lament  the 
loss  of  two  excellent  elders  in  the  persons  of  John  T.  Herrold  and 
Abraham  A.  Warner,  both  of  whom  took  an  active  interest  in  the 
welfare  of  the  church.  The  members  are  faithful  in  their  attend- 
ance upon  the  ordinances  of  God's  house,  and  the  future  of  the 
church  is  assured  as  prosperous  from  the  number  of  promising 
youth  who  now  compose  a  considerable  part  of  the  membership. 
On     Sabbath     evenings     a     praj'er-meeting    is     maintained,    with 


12^5  HISTORY    OF    THE 


occasional  preaching  by  the  pastor,  and  in  these  meetings  many 
take  part.  That  the  church  is  the  central  interest  is  commonly 
acknowledged,  and  as  a  consequence  the  character  of  the  com- 
munity is  superior.  May  Boiling  Spring  church  long  maintain  a 
good  name,  and  move  on  to  still  wider  conquests  through  the  con- 
tinued interest  and  faithful  labors  of  all  its  memV^ers. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  127 


BRADY'S  BEND. 


TTTTTTTT  TTTTTTTT 


BY    REV.    D.    HALI.,    D.    D. 


rrrTTTTTTTTTrm 


The  Presbyterian  Church  of  Brady's  Bend  in  Armstrong 
county,  Pa.,  was  organized  April  8th,  1845,  by  a  committee  of 
Allegheny  Presbytery,  consisting  of  Revs.  Samuel  Caldwell  and 
James  M.  Smith.  They  were  appointed  to  this  duty  April  1,  1845, 
and  October  21,  reported  the  organization  completed.  The  early 
records  seem  to  have  been  lost,  and  there  is  no  list  of  original 
members  or  elders.  The  elders  chosen  at  the  organization,  it  is 
thought,  were  William  Devinney  and  Thomas  F.  Towle,  who, con- 
tinued in  office  until  the  death  of  the  former,  about  1870,  and  the 
removal  of  the  latter  to  California,  about  1865. 

The  church  was  a  missionary  enterprise,  to  meet  the  wants  of 
a  mining  and  manufacturing  population  connected  with  the  Brady's 
Bend  Iron  Company,  a  corporation  of  New  England  capitalists 
engaged  in  the  making  of  railrord  iron.  The  population  numbered 
three  or  four  thousand  of  many  nationalities — English,  Welsh, 
German,  Irish,  etc. 

A  lot  of  ground  was  donated  by  the  Iron  Company,  on  which, 
soon  after  the  organization,  a  handsome  frame  church  was  erected 
at  a  cost  of  five  or  six  thousand  dollars.  It  was  of  two  stories, 
with  high  ceiling,  belfry  and  bell,  and  would  seat  about  four 
hundred.  This  building,  owing  to  a  change  in  the  centre  of  popu- 
lation, was  sold  subsequently  to  the  German  Catholic  Church,  and 
a  new  house  more  convenient  of  access  was  built  on  a  lot  donated 
by  the  Iron  Company  about  1865,  at  a  cost  of  about  $4,000.  It  is 
of  one  story,  and  will  seat  about  three  hundred. 


128  HISTORY    OF    Ti(E 


In  18G6-7  a  comfortable  parsonage  was  erected  on  ground 
donated  by  the  Iron  Company,  at  a  cost  of  about  $2,000,  which  is 
still  the  property  ot  the  church.  The  Iron  Company  in  all  these 
enterprises  was  the  steady  and  generous  friend  of  the  church. 

The  first  pastor  was  the  Rev.  Louis  L.  Conrad.  He  was 
licensed  April  8,  1845  by  the  Presbytery  of  Allegheny.  October 
22,  1845,  he  was  appointed  stated  supply  at  Brady's  Bend  for  one 
year,  half  time,  and  recommended  to  the  Board  of  Domestic  Mis- 
sions for  $100,  as  missionary  at  Brady's  Bend,  Lawrenceburg  and 
vicinity.  June  17th,  1846,  he  was  ordained  an  evangelist,  and 
September  8,  1846,  accepted  a  call  to  Brady's  Bend,  and  was 
installed  November  17th.  In  this  service  Rev.  R.  B.  Walker,  D. 
D.,  preached  the  sermon,  Lo3'al  Young,  D.  D.,  presided,  and  pro- 
posed the  constitutional  questions,  and  gave  the  charge  to  the  pastor, 
R.  L.  McAboy,  D.  D.,  gave  the  charge  to  the  people.  November 
13,  1849,  Mr.  Conrad  was  released  from  the  charge  of  Brady's 
Bend. 

Mr.  Conrad  was  born  in  Prussia,  June  24,  1817.  His  collegiate 
course  was  taken  in  Hampden  Sydney  College,  and  his  theological 
in  the  Western  Theological  Seminary,  from  which  he  graduated  in 
1846.  After  leaving  Brady's  Bend  he  was  pastor  of  the  churches 
of  Murraysville  and  Cross  Roads,  Pa.,  1850-2,  and  of  Manc'nester, 
Pa.,  1852-67,  where  he  died  November  11,  1867. 

The  pulpit  was  then  supplied  during  December  of  1849,  Jan- 
uary, February  and  Marcli  of  1850  one  Sabbath  each  month  under 
direction  of  the  Allegheny  Presbyttry,  by  Rev.  Drs.  Loyal 
Young,  R.  B.  Walker,  L.  R.  McAboy  and  Rev.  Newton 
Bracken. 

Rev.  Carl  Moore  was  then  appointed  stated  supply  by  the 
Presbytery,  and  continued  in  the  capacity  until  1853. 

The  pulpit  was  then  vacant  until  1857,  when  Rev.  D.  Hall  was 
installed  pastor  over  the  united  churches  of  Union  and  Brady's 
Bend.  This  pastorate  continued  until  1867,  during  which  the 
second  building  and  the  parsonage  were  erected.  Rev.  S.  H. 
Holliday  was  installed  in  1868,  and  continued  until  1874,  when  he 
removed  to  Robella  (now  Belle vue)  Pa. 

Toward  the  close  of  Mr.  Holliday 's  pastorate  the  great  financial 
panic  of  1873  occurred,  at  which  time  the  Brady's  Bend  Iron  Com- 
pany suspended.     Their  works  which  were   begun   in   1839,  had 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  129 

grown  to  large  proportions,  employing  about  1,200  men,  and  con- 
suming 110,000  tons  of  coal  and  70,000  tons  of  ore  annually.  Tine 
company  never  I'esumed  business.  The  machinery  has  been 
removed,  most  of  the  buildings  have  been  removed  or  have  fallen 
into  ruin,  and  the  place  has  been  deserted  by  most  o.'"  the  thousands 
v^-ho  used  to  throng  its  streets.  Mr.  HoUiday  w^as  called  to  Brady's 
Bend  from  Brookville,  Pa.  He  was  born  in  Lancaster  county,  Pa., 
August  9,  1833,  graduated  from  Jefferson  College,  1858,  from 
Western  Theological  Seminary,  1862,  and  was  ordained  by  Pres- 
bytery of  Clarion,  June  17,  1863. 

Revs.  Theodore  S.  Negley  and  William  J.  Wilson  supplied  the 
pulpit  after  Mr.  Holliday's  resignation  until  1878;  Rev.  S.  A. 
Hughes  the  spring  of  1879;  Rev.  H.  Magill,  1879-81;  Rev.  J.  S. 
Helm  during  1885.  During  1883-4  there  were  occasional  sup- 
plies appointed  by  the  Presbytery.  Rev.  J.  C.  Shearer  was  supplv 
in  1885;  Rev.  Mr.  Swan,  1886;  Rev.  S.  A.  Hughes,  1887,  and 
continues  stated  supplv  at  this  date,  January,  1888. 

Thomas  Hart  was  elected  elder  during  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  D. 
Hall,  and  continued  to  serve  the  church  w^ith  rare  fidelity  during 
that  and  the  following  pastorate  of  Rev.  S.  H.  Holliday,  when  he 
removed  to  the  bounds  of  another  church.  April  18,  1881,  J.  G. 
Campbell  and  John  Knepshield  were  ordained  and  installed,  Mr. 
Campbell  continuing  until  the  present  time.  The  session  now  con- 
sists of  J.  G.  Campbell  and  R.  J.  Karns.  Mr.  Campbell  is  clerk 
of  session. 

There  is  no  list  of  Sabbath  School  superintendents  available. 
Thomas  F.  Towle  was  superintendent  in  the  early  history  of  the 
church.  Thomas  Hart  was  a  faithful  and  efficient  superintendent 
during  the  second  and  third  pastoi^ates,  Mr.  J.  G.  Campbell  has  also 
been.  The  church  has  had  no  deacons.  The  church  has  had  a 
checkered  career,  owing  to  the  fluctuations  of  the  iron  and  oil  trade 
on  which  it  largely  depended.  In  its  prosperity  it  was  noted  for 
liberality  and  generous  treatment  of  pastors.  "  They  have  hearts 
as  big  as  a  bushel,"  was  the  encouragement  of  the  lamented 
Conrad  to  his  successor  in  the  pastorate. 

With  a  wise  and  faithful  pastor  it  may  recover  the  lost  ground 
and  do  good  service  in  what,  as  in  the  beginning,  is  still  a  mis- 
sionary field.  "  I  will  lift  up  mine  eyes  unto  the  hills  from  whence 
Cometh  my  help.  My  help  cometh  from  the  Lord  which  made 
heaven  and  earth." 

17 


130  HISTORY    OF    THE 


CENTRE. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY     REV.    D.    H.    SLOAX. 


Centre  church  is  located  on  Crooked  Creek  in  Indiana  county, 
(Creek  Side  P.  O.,)  about  six  miles  northwest  of  the  county  seat. 
It  was  organized  by  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville,  September  3, 
1851.  The  number  and  names  of  original  members  have  not  been 
ascertained.  Dr.  Donaldson  in  his  historical  sketch  of  this  church 
says  that  it  "  was  organized  from  Currie's  Run  and  Washington 
to  complete,  with  the  latter,  a  pastoral  charge  for  Rev.  S.  P.  Boll- 
man."  He  was  licensed  by  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville,  April, 
1851,  and  ordained  and  installed  in  the  charge  in  October  of  the 
same  year.  The  two  churches  were  reported  to  Presbytery  the 
following  April  as  having  192  members.  This  charge  he  resigned 
previous  to  April,  1856,  the  churches  being  then  reported  vacant 
with  an  aggregate  membership  of  295.  About  this  time  Mr.  Boll- 
man  was  elected  superintendent  of  Common  Schools  for  Indiana 
county,  in  which  capacity  he  served  for  nine  years. 

At  the  organization  of  the  Presbytery  of  Saltsburg,  January  (5, 
1857,  Mr.  Wm.  G.  Shand,  then  a  licentiate  of  the  Presbytery  of 
Cedar,  obtained  leave  to  labor  in  the  bounds  of  the  Presbytery,  and 
so  began  his  labor  in  these  churches.  Calls  for  his  services  being 
made  out  he  accepted  them,  August  25, 1857,  and  was  ordained  and 
installed  in  the  charge  at  Centre,  September  1,  following.  Rev.  W. 
F.  Morgan  preaching  the  sermon,  Rev.  John  Stark  offering  the 
ordaining  prayer,  Rev.  John  Caruthers  giving  the  charge  to  the 
pastor,  and  Rev.  G.  W.  Mechlin  the  charge  to  the  people.  The 
relationship  thus  formed  was  of  short  duration,  Mr.  Shand  having 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  131 

been  released  from  the  charge  October  6,  1858.  The  following 
April  he  was  dismissed  to  the  Presbytery  of  Cedar,  whence  he 
came.  He  seems  to  Inve  had  no  regular  pastoral  charge  after  this. 
In  1867  his  name  last  appears  in  the  Assembly's  minutes.  He  was 
then  reported  as  without  charge,  with  his  residence  at  Davenport, 
Iowa,  where   he  died  at  a  d  ite  not  definitely  ascertained. 

The  next  pastor  of  the  church  was  Rev.  D.  D.  Christy.  He 
was  received  as  a  licentiate  from  the  Presbytery  of  Columbus,  June 
26,  1860,  at  which  time  he  accepted  calls  from  this  church  and 
Washington,  and  was  ordained  and  installed  July  3,  following. 
The  services  were  at  Washington,  Rev.  G.  W.  Mechlin,  preaching 
the  sermon.  Rev.  A.  McElwain  giving  the  charge  to  the  pastor, 
and  Rev.  J.  Caruthers  to  the  people.  The  relation  thus  constituted 
existed  to  Maj-  4,  1863,  v/hen  the  pastor  was  released  and  dis- 
missed to  the  Presbytery  of  x\llegheny.  He  was  reported  as  stated 
supply  at  Zelienople  in  that  Presbytery  (now  Butler)  in  1867-68. 
His  name  last  appears  in  the  Assembly's  minutes  of  1870,  his 
address  being  Coultersville,  Pa. 

With  the  beginning  of  the  year  1864,  Rev.  S.  P.  Bollman,  a 
former  pastor,  began  supplying  the  church.  April  12,  1865,  he 
accepted  a  call  and  was  installed  July  5,  following.  Rev.  J.  M. 
Jones  preached,  Dr.  Donaldson  gave  the  charge  to  the  pastor,  and 
Rev.  J.  Caruthers  to  the  people.  A  year  later  he  became  again 
pastor  at  Washington.  He  was  released  from  the  charge,  April 
12,  1870.  About  this  time  he  removed  from  the  bounds  of  Pres- 
bytery. Pi-esbytery  having  learned  that  he  had  joined  the  M.  E. 
church,  dropped  his  name  from  its  roll,  Dec.  17,  1872. 

Rev.  A.  Virtue,  of  the  Pi'esbytery  of  Clarion,  having  begun 
to  supply  at  Centre,  the  congregation  decided  to  avail  itself  of  the 
provisions  of  the  sustentation  scheme  then  in  force  and  to  call  him 
for  his  whole  time.  This  was  done,  the  call  was  accepted,  and 
Mr.  Virtue  was  installed  October  15,  1872.  But  the  burden  of 
support  seeming  too  great,  Mr.  Virtue  was  released  for  one-fourth 
of  his  time,  December  9,  1876,  and  afterward  became  pastor  at 
Cherry  Run,  and  also  preached  at  Atwood,  which  was  organized 
during  the  time  of  his  ministry  in  1874.  His  pastorate  continued 
until  April  4,  1882,  when  he  was  released  and  dismissed  to  the 
Presbytery  of  West  Virginia.  Mr.  Virtue  was  "  in  labors 
abundant  "  and   his  preaching  was  earnest  and  practical,  and  to  a 


132  HISTORY    OK    THE 


marked  degree,  expository  of  Scripture.  During  the  first  winter 
of  Mr.  Virtue's  pastorate  at  Centre,  the  church  experienced  a 
revival  of  much  power.  The  additions  on  profession  as  reported 
for  that  year  were  thirty-eight,  and  the  whole  numher  of  communi- 
cants, 128. 

Since  the  close  of  Mr.  Virtue's  pastorate  the  church  has  secured 
no  pastor.  From  April,  1883,  Mr.  W.  T.  Garroway  was  supply 
for  a  period  of  three  months;  from  May,  1886,  Rev.  A.  T.  Bell 
was  supply  for  a  year  or  somewhat  more.  At  other  times  the 
church  had  occasional  services,  chiefly  from  Revs.  F.  Orr,  B.  S. 
Sloan  and  A.  T.  Bell.  The  membership  as  reported  for  1887  was 
seventy-three. 

The  ruling  elders  in  this  church,  so  far  as  ascertained,  have 
been  the  following:  Wm.  Stuchell,  from  September,  1848;  Philip 
Uncapher,  Robert  Spence,  James  Carroll,  from  May,  1866;  Alex. 
McCune,  from  January,  1874;  John  Stuchell,  Byron  McGara, 
Michael  Kaufman,  from  September,  1876;  James  Hamilton,  Joseph 
Johnston,  from  June  4,  1880;  F.  E.  Fairman  and  Samuel  McGara, 
from ,  1883. 

The  houses  of  worship  first  built  having  been  destroyed  by  fire, 
a  new  house  was  built  at  a  cost  of  about  x'^1,200.  It  is  a  frame 
structure,  thirty-six  by  fifty  feet,  with  sittings  for  about  300  person*-. 
It  was  first  occupied  October  2,  1886. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  133 


CHERRY  RUN. 


BY    REV.   J.    P.    CALHOUN. 


The  church  of  Cherry  Run  was  organized  on  the  6th  day  of 
December,  1843,  by  a  committee  of  Blairsville  Presbytery,  consist- 
ing of  Messrs.  Joseph  Painter,  James  D.  Mason  and  L.  M.  Graves 
ministers,  and  Joseph  Henderson  and  Joseph  Harbison  elders.  This 
committee  met  at  the  house  of  Archibald  McEntosh,  near  the 
village  of  VVhitesburg,  and  organized  the  church  with  the  follow- 
ing members:  James  Patton,  Sr.,  Mary  Patton,  his  wife;  Mary 
Ann  Patton  and  Nancy  Patton,  their  daughters;  Archibald 
McEntosh  and  Catharine  McEntosh,  his  wife;  John  Moore  and 
Rebecca  Moore,  his  wife;  Irwin  Graham  and  Jane  Graham,  his 
wife;  John  Robb  and  Mary  Robb,  his  wife;  James  Morton  and 
Eleanor  Morton,  his  wife;  Robert  Nowrey  and  Sarah  Nowrey, 
his  wife;  Robert  Windreln  and  Susan  Windrein,  his  wife; 
Margaret  Morton,  Margaret  Elgin,  James  Windrein,  Nancy  Irwin, 
John  Morrow,  Margaret  Graham,  Eliza  Graham,  James  Graham, 
Andrew  Graham,  John  Steele. 

At  the  time  of  organization  Archibald  McEntosh  and  John 
Moore  were  elected  elders. 

Rev.  John  Stark  was  the  first  Presbyterian  minister  who  regu- 
larly preached  the  gospel  in  these  bounds,  serving  as  stated  supply 
from  1843  till  1855.  For  the  first  two  years  the  congregation  was 
without  a  house  of  worship,  but  religious  services  were  regularly 
held  either  in  a  school  house  or  in  a  barn,  then  owned  by  Mr. 
McEntosh.  In  this  barn  the  sacrament  of  the  Lord's  Supper  was 
administered  on  several  occasions. 


154  HISTORV    OK    THE 


Under  the  direction  of  Mr.  Stark  a  church  building  was- 
erected  about  the  year  1845,  at  a  cost  of  $500,  capable  of  seating 
300  persons.  This  building  is  substantially  the  present  house  of 
worship,  with  necessary  repairs  that  have  been  made  from  time  to 
time. 

Mr,  Stark  was  a  minister  of  the  "  olden  time,"'  preaching  two 
sermons  a  Sabbath  with  intermission  between,  while  he  labored 
part  of  the  time  during  the  week  on  his  farm,  the  other  part 
devoting  to  his  ministerial  duties.  He  was  an  orthodox,  earnest, 
pointed  preacher  and  greatly  beloved  by  all  who  knew  him.  His 
memory  is  still  hallowed,  as  it  has  been  handed  down  from  one 
generation  to  another,  in  all  the  homes  of  this  church.  He  lived 
the  last  years  of  his  ministry  and  life  in  this  congregation,  and  his 
remains  are  resting  hard  by  the  church  which  he  founded,  and 
where  he  laid,  broad  and  deep,  the  foundations  of  "  true  blue "" 
Presbyterianism  as  revealed  in  the  word  of  God. 

Rev.  T,  S.  Leason  now  ably  served  the  church  with  great 
acceptance  to  the  people  for  a  period  of  about  four  years. 

In  November,  1859,  Rev.  M.  M.  Shirley,  then  pastor  of 
Currie's  Run,  was  installed  pastor  for  the  third  of  his  time,  and  so 
continued  until  October  5^  1864.  During  Mr.  Shirley's  pastorate 
the  church  grew  and  prospei'ed,  receiving  many  accessions  to  the 
memiiership. 

It  was  now  supplied  by  the  Presbytery  for  three  years,  when. 
May  8,  1867,  Rev.  Geo.  K.  Scott  became  pastor  in  connection  with 
Appleby  Manor  and  Crooked  Creek.  During  the  two  years  of 
his  service  the  church  continued  to  prosper,  when,  April  13,  1867 
the  pastoral  relation  was  dissolved,  and  the  church  again  supplied  by 
the  Presbytery  for  three  years. 

Rev.  Andrew  Virtue,  pastor  of  Centre  church,  having  supplied 
this  church  a  considerable  time,  accepted  a  call  for  one-third  time, 
and  was  installed,  June  23,  1875.  He  was  released  from  his  charge, 
April  4,  1882.  These  years  were  marked  by  numerous  and  large 
accessions  to  the  church,  and  it  is  said  of  Mr.  Virtue  that  in  all  this 
time  he  never  missed  a  single  appointment,  although  living  many 
miles  from  this  charge.  During  his  pastorate  he  served  the  church 
one-third  time,  at  a  salary  of  $300  per  annum. 

From  1882  until  1885  the  Presbytery  again  furnished  supplies. 
In  1885  the  writer  became  stated  supply,  and  so  continued  for  about 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  135 


two  years,  when,  having  accepted  a  call  for  half  time,  he  was 
installed  pastor  June  15,  1877. 

The  following  named  persons  have  been  the  elders:  John 
Moore,  A,  McEntosh,  Irwin  Graham,  who  were  ordained  and 
installed  at  or  soon  after  the  organization ;  James  Morton  and  Jas. 
Patton,  ordained  in  June,  1855;  Thomas  Shane,  James  E. 
'Graham  and  Karnes  Irwin,  ordained  July  9th,  1866;  Jesse  Jones, 
Thomas  Lemmon  and  Jas.  Louther,  ordained  August  30th,  1868; 
Jas.  Graham  and  J.  T.  Robb,  ordained  December  25th,  1873; 
Samuel  McCurdy  and  J.  P.  Graham,  ordained  June  11th,  1881 ; 
W.  J.  Boarts  and  Wm.  Shetler,  ordained  February  17th,  1884. 
Messrs.  Lemmon,  Robb,  J.  P,  Graham,  Boarts  and  Shetler  consti- 
tute   the  present  session,  of  which  J.  T.  Robb  is  clerk. 

There  has  been  a  Sabbath  School  connected  with  the  church 
since  shortlv  after  its  organization.  The  following  persons  have 
acted  as  superintendents:  Irwin  Graham,  James  Morton,  James 
Patton,  Jesse  Jones,  James  Graham,  J.  T.  Robb,  James  Irwin.  J. 
P.  Graham  and  Wm.  Shetler. 

There  have  not  been  any  noted  revivals  until  the  beginning  ot 
1887,  when,  during  a  special  service  of  about  three  weeks,  fifty-one 
persons  united  with  the  church,  nearly  all  of  them  by  profession, 
and  among  the  number  the  united  heads  of  six  families.  After  this 
service  the  good  work  continued  to  go  on,  and  many  others  were 
received,  making  in  all  an  accession  of  sixty-five  persons. 

A  deep  interest  has  been  manifested  in  the  weekly  prayer 
meeting  since  that  time  by  both  old  and  young.  The  Sabbath 
School  numbers  in  membership  one  hundred  and  twenty-five,  and 
the  church  continues  to  be  greatly  revived  in  all  her  interests. 
<*  Thanks  be  unto  God  for  His  unspeakable  gift," 


I3ff  HISTORY    OF    THE 


CHERRY  TREE, 


BY    ELDER    E.    15.    CAMP. 


The  first  meeting  was  held  in  the  house  of  Richard  Bard,  Esq.^ 
on  the  first  day  of  September,  A.  D.  1837.  The  meeting  was 
organized  by  appointing  H.  F.  Camp,  chairman.     It  was 

"  Resolved,  1.  That  we  organize  ourselves  into  an  ecclesiastical  society, 
under  the  name  and  title  of  the  Cherry  Tree  Presbyterian  Congregation. 

"2.  That  a  committee  of  five  (5),  viz:  Wm.  Thompson,  Esq.,  Wm. 
Moore,  Matthias  Bartlebaugh,  John  McDowell  and  David  Somerville,  be 
appointed  to  locate  a  site  for  a  house  of  worship  and  to  report  to  an  adjourned 
meeting  to  be  held  on  the  16th  inst." 

At  the  time  designated,  the  meeting  being  again  convened,  the 
committee  reported  that  they  had  chosen  the  site  offered  and  given 
by  H.  F.  Camp  for  that  purpose.  This  report  was  accepted  and 
approved,  and  another  committee  consisting  of  John  Armstrong, 
H.  F.  Camp  and  Peter  Newman  was  apjoointed  to  take  subscrip- 
tions and  build  said  house,  and  also  to  manage  the  temporal  con- 
cerns ot  the  congregation.  The  committee  having  received  sub- 
scriptions during  the  remainder  of  the  year  1837,  proceeded  in  the 
spring  of  1838  to  the  erection  of  a  house,  and  on  the  29th  day  of 
May,  1838  it  was  so  far  completed  that  a  meeting  for  the  organiza- 
tion of  a  church  was  held  therein. 

The  cost  of  said  house,  so  far  as  it  had  been  finished  at  that 
time,  amounted  to  $261.60,  of  which  sum,  $88.50  was  paid  by  the 
congregation,  $55.42  by  William  Front  &  Co.,  leaving  a  balance 
due  of  $107.78,  which  sum  was  paid  by  H.  F.  Camp. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  187 

On  the  29th  of  May,  1888,  a  committee  of  the  Presbytery  of 
Blairsville,  consisting  of  the  Rev.  John  Kirkpatrick  and  the  Rev. 
Erastus  Cole  met  by  appointment  and  organized  the  church  of 
Cherry  Tree,  witli  the  following  roll  of  members,  viz:  Matthias 
Bartlebaugh,  Mrs.  Betsy  Bartlebaugh,  Mrs.  Elizabeth  Cole,  Heth 
F.  Camp,  Mrs.  Phoebe  Camp,  John  Eason,  Mrs.  EHzabeth  Eason, 
Mrs. "Phoebe  Hollister,  Mrs.  Catharine  Hewlett,  John  Lowman, 
Mrs.  Mary  Lowman,  William  Moore,  Mrs.  Jane  Moore.  Total 
number  13. 

John  Lowman  and  Heth  F.  Camp  were  then  chosen  and 
ordained  as  ruling  elders.  The  congregation  then  proceeded  to 
give  the  Rev.  E.  Cole  a  formal  call  to  become  their  stated  pastor, 
pledging  themselves  to  raise  $200  annually  for  his  support,  said 
call  being  presented  to  the  Presbytery  met  at  Dennisontown  on  the 
1st  of  June,  1838.  The  call  being  accepted  by  Mr.  Cole,  a  com- 
mittee was  appointed  to  install  him,  and  on  the  1st  Tuesday  of 
September  next  following,  he  was  duly  installed  as  pastor. 

In  September,  1839,  Mr.  Cole  resigned  the  pastoral  office  and 
removed  to  the  State  of  Ohio.  During  this  period  of  time  five 
new  members,  four  on  examination  and  one  on  certificate  were 
added  to  the  church. 

For  the  next  six  years,  viz:  from  1840  until  1845,  the  Presby- 
tery sent  occasional  supplies  from  several  neighboring  ministers  to 
preach  and  administer  the  ordinances. 

The  Rev.  John  Williams,  of  the  Congregational  Church 
(Welsh)  was  employed  a  portion  of  his  time  for  about  two  years 
during  1841  and  1842.  From  1845  to  1847,  Rev.  D.  M.  Smith 
preached  to  the  congregation  as  stated  supply. 

In  the  year  1846  the  house  of  worship,  which  up  to  this  time 
had  remained  unfinished,  was  lined  and  furnished  with  seats,  at  a 
cost  of  about  $250,  making  the  total  cost  $500. 

In  the  latter  part  of  the  year  1848  Rev.  David  Mills  com- 
menced serving  the  congregation  as  stated  supply,  in  which  office 
he  continued  for  some  eighteen  months. 

In  January,  1851,  Rev.  William  Edgar  commenced  his  labors 
as  stated  supply,  having  declined  to  accept  a  call  to  become  the 
regular  pastor.  He  served  the  congregation  only  one  year,  but 
during  that  time  as  the  result  of  his  faithful    labors  in  public  and 


138  HISTORY    OF    THE 


private,  twenty-three  adult  members  were  added  to  the  church, 
twenty  of  them  on  examination,  seven  of  whom  were  heads  of 
families. 

In  September,  1852,  Rev.  John  Moore  commenced  preaching 
for  the  congregation,  and  on  the  27th  day  of  January,  1858,  he  was 
installed  as  their  pastor  and  continued  in  that  office  until  April  14, 
1857,  when  he  was  released  by  Presbytery  to  accept  a  call  in  the 
Presbytery  of  Huntingdon.  During  his  pastorate  thirty-three 
members  were  received  into  the  church,  nineteen  of  them  on 
examination,  and  a  new  house  of  worship  was  erected  in  the  central 
part  of  the  village.  This  is  a  neat  frame  building,  forty  by  sixty 
feet,  twenty-four  feet  in  height,  with  basement  under  the  front  part 
and  surmounted  by  a  handsome  spire.  The  total  cost,  including 
the  lot,  was  $3,500,  besides  the  old  building.  It  was  dedicated  in 
December,  1856.  On  the  3d  of  September,  1854,  the  court 
granted  the  congregation  a  charter  of  incorporation  under  the  title 
of  "  The  Presbyterian  Church  of  Cherry  Tree." 

The  first  Board  of  Trustees  under  this  charter  consisted  of 
George  M.  Gamble,  M.  D.,  Matthew  McConaughy,  E.  R.  Hollis- 
ter,  E.  B.  Camp,  James  Kelly  and  Gideon  Kinports. 

In  the  spring  of  1858  Rev.  J.  P.  Kennedy  visited  and  preached 
to  this  congregation,  and  on  the  14th  day  of  July,  1858,  he  was 
regularly  ordained  and  installed  as  pastor.  He  was  a  faithful  and 
successful  shepherd  of  the  flock,  and  the  church  was  prosperous 
under  his  care.  The  membership  steadily  increased,  the  debt 
incurred  by  building  was  paid,  and  when  he  was  released  from  his 
charge,  October  6,  1868,  he  left  the  church  in  good  working  con- 
dition. 

From  this  time  until  September,  1874,  Presbytery  sent 
occasional  supplies,  and  during  the  summer  vacations  the  pulpit 
was  supplied  by  students  from  the  theological  seminaries  as  follows: 
in  1869  by  Mr.  T.  D.  Wallace,  and  in  1870  by  Mr.  S.  S.  Wylie, 
from  the  Western  Theologic  d  Seminary;  in  1871  and  1872  by  Mr. 
Thomas  Parry,  from  Princeton  Seminary;  in  1874  by  Mr.  D.  M- 
Hazlett,  from  Western  Theological  Seminary,  afterwards  missionary 
to  South  America;  and  from  January,  1875,  to  July,  1876,  by  Rev. 
J.  N.  Diament.  In  April,  1882,  Rev.  Julius  Spencer  was  employed 
as  stated  supply,  which  relation  was  continued  until  July  1,  1886» 
since  which  time  the  church   has  been  without  regular  preaching. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING. 


139 


It  is  proper  to  add  that  since  the  above  was  written,  Rev. 
Harvey  Shaw  began  ministerial  labor  in  this  church  and  Bethesda, 
with  the  expectation  that  in  due  time  he  will  become   their  pastor. 

A  Sabbath  School  has  been  maintained  in  connection  with  the 
church  since  its  organization.  The  school  was  closed  during  the 
winter  months  until  the  completion  of  the  new  church  in  1856,  since 
which  time  it  has  been  kept  up  throughout  the  year.  The  names 
of  superintendents,  as  far  as  can  be  ascertained,  are  as  follows: 
Heth  F.  Camp,  Matthew  McConaughy,  Robert  A.  Hamilton, 
Wm.  T.  Forbes,  E.  B.  Camp,  D.  J.  Satterfield,  Elijah  P.  Baker, 
J.  H.  Kelly,  Dr.  William  Hosack,  Robert  H.  McCormick. 
Attendance  at  one  period  averaged  above  100;  present  average 
attendance,  (1887)  66;  present  church  membership,  50. 

REGISTER    OF    ELDERS. 


John    Lowman 

Heth  F.  Camp 

Thomas  McKisick 

Wm.  Herrett 

Shepley  Priestly 

Charles  Priestly 

Robert  A.  Hamilton.. 

John  Martin 

E.  B.  Camp 

Benj.  Pittman 

William  Armstrong-... 

James  McEwen 

L,eon?rd  A.  HoUister 

John  E.  Pittman 

John  Eason 

John  E.  Johnson 


When  Ordained  or 
Installed. 


May 
May 
July 

J"iy 
July 


February  18, 

February  18, 

February  18, 

March 

October 

October 

October 

January 

January 

Aug-ust 

Aug-ust 


1838. 
1838. 
1847. 
1847. 
1847. 
1851. 
1851. 
1851. 
1857. 
1868. 
1868. 
1868. 
1874. 
1874. 
1877. 
1877. 


Dismissed. 


Removed    before    1847. 

Removed  to  Iowa,  1866. 
Ceased  to  act,  1866. 
Removed  about   1852. 


Dismissed  Nov.,  1857 


Removed  in  1877. 


Died. 


April  9,  1849. 


June  30,  1868. 

Febmairyis,  1877! 


140  HISTORY    OF    THE 


CLARKSBURG. 


BV    REV.    D.    J.    IRWIX,    D.    D. 


Clarksburg  church  was  organized  in  the  spring  of  1857,  as  we 
learn  from  the  following  minutes  taken  from  the  sessional  records: 
"At  a  meeting  of  the  Presbytery  held  at  Indiana  on  the  second 
Tuesday  of  January,  1857,  a  petition  of  sundry  persons,  members 
of  the  Presbyterian  church,  residing  in  Clarksburg  and  vicmity, 
was  presented,  praying  that  a  congregation  might  be  organized  by 
the  order,  and  under  the  care  of  said  Presbytery.  On  motion  it 
was  resolved  that  the  prayer  of  the  petitioners  be  granted,  and  the 
Rev.  Alexander  Donaldson,  D.  D.,  Rev.  George  Morton  and  Rev. 
Franklin  Orr,  ministers,  and  William  McElwain,  James  Marshall 
and  Joseph  Harbison,  elders,  be  appointed  a  committee  to  organize 
said  organization." 

The  above  committee  met  in  Clarksburg  on  the  last  Wednesday 
in  March,  1857.  Rev.  George  Morton  was  chosen  chairman,  and 
Franklin  Orr,  clerk.  By  this  committee  the  church  was  at  this  time 
organized,  and  the  following  named  twenty  persons  who  presented 
certificates  of  dismission  from  other  churches  constituted  its  original 
membership:  From  the  church  of  Elder's  Ridge,  Samuel  Cochran, 
Nancy  Cochran,  Mai-y  Cochran,  Samuel  Cochran,  Jr.,  J.  G. 
Thompson,  Louisa  Thompson,  Jane  E.  Thompson,  Emily  J. 
Thompson,  William  M.  Hazlett,  Mary  Ann  Hazlett,  Samuel  M. 
Russell,  Pol.'y  Russell,  Dr.  John  Kennedy,  Mary  Jane  Kenned}-,  ]. 
H.  Caldwell  and  Martha  Caldwell.  From  the  church  of  W'est 
Lebanon,  Alexander  Hazlett  and  Mar}-  Hazlett.  From  the  church 
of  Ebenezer,  William  C.  Marshall  and  Esther  Marshall. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNlNG.  141 

On  the  same  day,  Mr.  John  G.  Thompson  and  Mr.  Alexander 
Hazlett  were  chosen  ruling  elders,  and  Mr.  Hazlett  was  ordained 
and  installed.  Mr.  Thompson  being  absent  from  home  that  day, 
and  shortly  after  removing  from  the  bounds  of  the  congregation, 
was  probably  never  installed  as  an  elder. 

For  a  year  little  or  nothing  seems  to  have  been  done  by  the 
congregation,  as  the  first  meeting  of  the  session  after  the  organiza- 
tion of  the  church  was  in  April,  1858.  On  the  1st  ot  May,  1858, 
the  congregation  employed  Mr.  J.  E.  Caruthers,  a  licentiate  of  the 
Presbytery  of  Saltsburg,  as  stated  supply  until  the  fall  meeting  of 
the  Presbytery. 

Mr.  Caruthers  preached  during  the  summer,  while  at  the  same 
time  he  filled  the  position  of  assistant  teachef  in  Elder's  Ridge 
Academy.  He  also  continued  his  services  for  one-half  his  time 
during  the  follovsring  winter  while  completing  his  studies  at  the 
Western  Theological   Seminaiy. 

Under  the  faithful  ministration  of  this  devoted  servant  of  Christ 
the  church  entered  upon  a  remarkable  career  of  prosperit}'^,  as  the 
following  extract  from  the  narrative  of  the  state  of  religion  found 
in  the  minutes  of  the  session  dated  April  11th,  1859  will  show^ 
-"  During  the  year  the  presence  of  the  good  shepherd  has  been 
maintained  among  this  little  flock.  The  membership  has  been 
increased  four  fold,  the  greater  part  of  which  increase  has  been 
gathered  in  from  the  world.  The  Sabbath  school  during  the 
summer  was  well  attended,  and  very  interesting.  At  the  close  of 
the  summer  the  Sabbath  school  was  merged  into  a  Bible  class, 
which  has  been  kept  up  v/ith  interest  during  the  winter.  There  are 
now  three  weekly  prayer  meetings  carried  on.  The  first  is  a  congre- 
gational meeting,  under  the  control  of  the  session.  This  had  been 
largely  attended  during  the  year,  and  often  gave  manifest  indica- 
tions of  the  presence  of  God's  spirit.  Next  a  meeting  of  the  ladies, 
conducted  by  themselves,  well  attended,  interesting  and  profitable. 
Lastly  a  meeting  of  the  young  men,  which  has  been  carried  on 
during  the  winter  months  much  to  the  edification  and  spiritual 
growth  of  those  who  attend." 

Brother  Caruthers  having  completed  his  studies  entered  upon  his 
Master's  work  in  another  field  of  labor,  but  the  life  and  energy 
infused  into  the  congi"egatIon  during  his  ministrations  were  kept  up 
the  following  summer  under  the  faithful  labor  of   Mr.  R.  J.  Evans, 


j4'i  HISTORY    OK    THE 


a  licentiate  of  the  Presbytery  of  Allegheny.  He  was  a  faithful  and 
earnest  preacher,  and  one  of  the  most  amiable  and  godly  of  men. 
Having  completed  his  studies  he  devoted  himself  to  the  cause  of 
domestic  missions,  and  was  sent  by  the  Board  of  Missions  to  Wash- 
ington Territory,  where  he  entered  with  zeal  and  earnestness  into 
the  work  assigned  him.  He  was,  however,  not  permitted  to  labor 
long.  The  Master  soon  saw  fit  to  release  him  from  the  toil  of 
earth,  and  call  him  to  the  rest  of  heaven.  Brother  Caruthers  has 
also  ceased  from  his  labors,  and  gone  home  to  glory.  These 
devoted  servants  of  Christ  have  passed  away,  but  their  power  and 
influence  arc  still  felt,  and  their  names  are  tenderly  cherished  in  the 
memories  of  those  among  whom  the}'  labored  and  by  whom  they 
were  dearly  and  tenderly  beloved. 

This  state  of  prosperity  in  the  church  continued  to  a  considera- 
ble degree  during  the  following  year,  part  of  which  the  congrega- 
tion engaged  the  ministrations  of  Mr.  J.  B.  Dickey.  After  this, 
for  two  or  three  years,  the  congregation  was  in  a  very  languishing 
condition,  enjoying  only  occas$ionally  the  ministrations  of  the 
brethren  appointed  as  supplies  by  the  Presbytery. 

October  1,  1864,  the  congregation  procured  the  services  of  Rev. 
David  Harbison,  pastor  of  the  church  of  Livermore  as  stated  supply 
for  one-third  of  his  time.  He  continued  to  supply  them  for  about 
two  years,  preaching  every  third  Sabba*^h.  His  ministrations  were 
greatly  blessed,  and  under  him  the  congregation  entered  upon  a 
career  of  prosperity. 

Durifig  the  summer  of  1867  and  part  of  the  following  winter  the 
congregation  was  supplied  by  Mr.  T.  R.  Ewing,  a  licentiate  of  the 
Presbytery  of  Saltsburg,  for  one-half  his  time.  By  his  ministra- 
tions the  congregation  was  greatly  profited,  and  continued  in  their 
former  condition  of  spiritual  prosperity  and  Christian  activity. 
After  this,  for  about  two  years,  the  congregation  passed  through 
another  season  of  great  discouragement  and  trial,  owing  to  the 
difficulty  of  procuring  supplies,  and  there  being  no  congregation  in 
the  bounds  with  which  they  could  conveniently  form  a  pastoral 
chai-ge.  At  length,  after  several  earnest  but  ineffectual  attempts, 
an  arrangement  was  made  in  the  spring  of  1870  with  the  church  of 
Ebenezer,  by  the  pastor  being  released  for  one-third  of  his  time,  in 
order  to  take  charge  of  the  church  at  Clarksburg.  Tliis  agreement 
having    been    made,  a  c<\ll    was  made  out    and    presented    to    the 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  143 

Presbytery,  which  was  accepted,  and  on  the  29th  day  of  April,  1870 
Rev.  D.  J.  Irwin  was,  by  a  committee  of  the  Presbytery  of  Salts- 
iDurg,  installed  pastor  of  the  church  of  Clarksburg  for  one-third  of 
his  time.  Since  that  time  he  has  continued  to  serve  both  churches, 
generally  preaching  at  Ebenezer  in  the  morning  and  at  Clarks- 
burg in  the  afternoon.  In  1859  the  congregation  erected  a  neat  and 
substantial  house  of  worship.  In  1870  there  were  sixty  names  on 
the  roll  of  the  church,  but  the  actual  membership  was  perhaps  not 
more  than  forty  or  fifty.     The  present  membership  is  156. 

On  the  14th  of  June,  1856,  Mr,  Henry  Robinson  was  installed 
as  ruling  elder,  having  been  formerly  ordained  a  ruling  elder  in  the 
church  of  Congruity.  Mr,  Robert  Anderson  was  ordained  and 
installed  as  elder,  March  11th,  1859, 

The  following  persons  have  also  been  elders  In  this  church: 
William  Kier,  installed  June  22,  1860;  George  Reed,  S.  P,  ISLar- 
shall,  Thomas  Anderson,  installed  February  20th,  1876;  James 
Hazlett,  John  Ashbaugh  and  Robert  A,  Harbison  were  added  to 
the  session,  March  15th,  1878.  The  present  session  is  composed  of 
William  Kier  and  the  three  persons  last  named  above. 

The  Sabbath  school  is  in  a  flourishing  condition.  The  follow- 
ing persons  have  been  superintendents :  Henry  Robinson,  Thomas 
Anderson,  Thomas  Getty,  Robert  Harbison,  Nelson  Coleman,  Jas. 
Hazlett,  John  Ashbaugh,  John  Cunningham,  Matthew  Elliott, 

The  ladies'  missionary  societies  and  bands  are,  with  fidelity  to 
the  Master's  cause,  actively  engaged  in  the  special  department  of 
the  Lord's  work  committed  to  them.  Fi-om  a  feeble  beginning, 
and  having  overcome  its  early  difficulties  and  trials,  Clarksburg  has, 
by  the  blessing  of  God,  grown  to  be  quite  a  strong  and  vigorous 
church. 


144  HISTORY    OF    THE 


CLINTON. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY    REV.    D.    H.    SLOAN. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


The  Presbyterian  Church  of  Clinton  was  organized  by  a  com- 
mittee of  the  Presbylery  of  Allegheny,  (now  Butler,)  on  the  7th 
day  of  June,  1852.  The  Rev.  J.  M.  Smith  presided  at  the  organi- 
zation, and  the  Rev.  George  Cairns  preached  a  sermon.  At  the 
organization  nine  persons  presented  letters  of  dismission  from  other 
churches,  viz:  Robei^t  G.  Mahaffey  and  Margaret,  his  wife,  Daniel 
Fry  and  Elizabeth,  his  wife,  Samuel  Mahaffey  and  Lydia  Ann,  his 
wife,  Robert  Patterson  and  Martha,  his  wife,  and  Francis  Stuart- 
Two  oihers  were  received  upon  profession  of  their  faith,  viz:  David 
G.  Stuart  and  Elizabeth,  his  wife,  thus  making  the  whole  number 
of  original  members  eleven. 

HOUSES    OF    WORSHIP. 

The  first  house  of  worship  was  built  in  1852  by  the  joint  efforts 
of  the  Lutheran'-  and  Presbyterians,  each  owning  a  half  interest  in 
it,  and  each  occupying  or  being  at  liberty  to  occupy  it  upon  every 
alternate  Sabbath.  This  building  was  a  frame  structure,  in  size 
about  40  by  45  feet,  and  plainly  finished  and  furnished.  During 
the  time  of  joint  occupancy  the  two  congregations  dwelt  together 
in  unity  as  became  brethren.  The  Lutheran  congregation  was 
mainly  served  by  Rev.  Lewis  Kountz.  After  about  1860  they  had 
only  occassional  service  in  the  church,  persons  of  that  faith  not  be- 
ing numerous  in  the  immediate  vicinit}-,  and  others  at  greater  dis- 
tance finding  it  more  convenient  to  attend  elsewhere.  About  1864 
some  repairs  wpre  made  upon  the  church  by  the  Presbyterians,  the 


PRESBVTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  145 

walls  being  papered,  the  pulpit  remodeled  and  lamps  provided. 
This  church  building  having  fallen  into  decay,  it  was  resolved  in 
the  spring  of  1875  to  erect  a  new  house  of  worship.  The  Lutherans 
having  virtually  ceased  to  occupy  the  church,  generously  released 
to  the  congregation  their  interest  in  the  old  building  so  as  to  allow 
of  its  removal.  The  lot  on  which  the  church  stood  had  been  pre- 
sented to  the  congregations  by  Daniel  Fry,  one  of  the  original 
members,  but  no  formal  title  had  been  made.  This  deficiency  was 
supplied  by  Mr.  Peter  A.  Smith,  of  the  village  of  Clinton,  the 
legal  representative  of  ^Mr.  Fry's  former  interests,  by  whom  a  title 
to  the  lot  was  duly  perfected.  The  new  church  building  is  a  neat 
frame  structure,  in  size  about  38  by  56  feet.  It  has  a  vestibule  with 
gallery  over  vestibule,  and  is  tastefully  seated  and  furnished.  The 
entire  cost  was  about  $2,500.  It  was  dedicated  March  9th,  1876, 
free  of  debt,  the  dedication  sermon  being  preached  by  Rev.  D.  W. 
Townsend.  While  the  new  church  which  occupies  almost  the  exact 
site  of  the  old  one  was  in  process  of  erection,  service  was  held  in 
the  public  school  house  near  by. 

PASTORS    AND    SUPPLIES, 

For  a  long  time  after  its  organization  the  church  had  no  installed 
pastor.  Rev.  George  Cairns  was  its  first  stated  supply.  His 
labors  continued  from  1853  to  1856.  Then  for  several  years  there 
were  only  occasional  supplies  appointed  chiefly  by  the  Presbytery, 
the  names  of  a  number  of  brethren  appearing  in  the  minutes  of  the 
session  as  moderator  in  connection  with  communion  occasions. 
From  April,  1860  to  April,  1861,  the  church  was  statedly  supplied 
by  Rev.  S.  A.  Hughes,  then  a  licentiate.  From  1864  to  1866, 
Rev.  D.  W.  Townsend,  then  pastor  at  Parnassus,  preached  here  the 
third  of  his  time,  and  under  his  ministrations  the  church  was 
encouraged  and  strengthened.  From  August,  1867,  to  December, 
1868,  Rev.  D.  H.  Sloan,  then  a  licentiate  and  principal  of  Slate 
Lick  Classical  Institute,  supplied  the  church  with  preaching  one- 
third  time.  He  then  gave  way  to  allow  Rev.  John  H.  Aughey  to 
become  first  actual  pastor  of  this  church  in  connection  with  Slate 
Lick,  to  which  he  had  already  been  called.  Under  the  arrange- 
ment Slate  Lick  got  half  time,  this  church  fourth,  and  the  other 
fourth  was  given  to  the  preaching  point  then  called  Tupelo,  organ- 
ized. May  1,  1881,  as  Srader's  Grove  Church.  The  installation  took 

19 


146 


HISTOKY    OF    THE 


place  at  Slate  Lick,  May  8,  1869,  Rev.  }.  McPherrin  giving  the 
charge  to  the  pastor  and  Rev.  J.  M.  Jones  to  the  people.  Mr. 
Aughey  ha  i  his  residence  at  Clinton.  But  his  ministry  here  was 
of  short  duration.  At  his  own  request  he  was  released  from  his 
charge  in  April  of  the  followinj,'  ye^ir.  For  about  a  year  from  the 
sjjring  of  1871,  Rev.  J.  J.  Francis,  pastor  for  his  full  time  at  Free- 
port,  supplied  the  church,  much  to  its  satisfaction,  with  frequent 
afternoon  service.  In  April  1872,  Mr.  D.  H.  Sloan  then  supplying 
the  church  ot  Leechburj^,  to  which  about  that  date  he  v/as  called 
for  three-fourths  of  his  time,  again  began  statedly  to  supply  the 
church.  To  enable  him  to  do  his  work  more  efficiently  he  was 
ordained  as  an  evangelist  by  the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning,  July  2, 
1872,  beino^  still  in  charge  of  the  school  at  Slate  Lick  and  there 
residing.  In  April,  1878,  he  accepted  the  call  from  Leechburg  and 
one  from  this  church  for  one-fourth  time,  and  on  the  28th  ot  the 
same  month  was  installed  in  each  church.  At  this  church  Rev.  T. 
D.  Ewing  preached  and  gave  the  charj^je  to  the  people,  and  Rev.  J. 
J.  Francis  gave  the  charge  to  the  pastor.  During  this  pastorate, 
from  about  May  1st  to  December  1st  of  each  year,  the  church  had 
preaching  each  alternate  Sabbath  in  the  afternoon,  and  during  the 
remainder  of  the  year,  every  fourth  Sabbath.  Including  the  year 
of  service  before  installation,  this  relation  continued  for  fifteen  years 
and  three  months.  The  church  of  Leechburg  having  made  an 
urgent  call  for  the  entire  time  of  their  pastor,  he  was  released  from 
his  charge  of  this  church  June  29,  1887,  pastor  and  people  parting 
from  each  <>ther  with  sincere  regret. 

RULING    ELDERS. 

On  the  day  of  organization  Samuel  Mahaffey  and  Robert 
Patterson  were  chosen  to  the  office  and  duly  ordained  and  installed. 
Both  these  afterward  removed  beyond  the  bounds  of  the  congrega- 
tion, Mr.  Patterson's  name  appearing  in  the  minutes  of  the  session 
for  the  last  time  in  August,  1860,  and  Mr.  Mahaffey's,  August  22, 
1869.  On  the  18th  of  February,  1865,  Mr.  Daniel  G.  Fry  was 
added  to  the  number  of  the  elders,  and  on  the  19lh  of  June,  1869, 
Messrs.  James  H.  Redick,  Jacob  M.  Bush  and  Samuel  Ferguson 
were  inducted  into  the  same  office.  Greatly  to  the  loss  of  the 
church,  Mr.  Redick  was  removed  by  death,  December  1, 1881,  after 
a  long  and  painful  illness.       He  was  a  man  singularly  earnest  and 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  147 

conscienciou8,  fervently  pious,  and  punctual  in  attendance  upon  all 
services  of  the  church  and  Sahbath  School,  regardless  of  season  or 
circumstance,  until  denied  the  privilege  by  infirmity  a  few  months 
before  his  death.  Another  ph'ce  in  the  session  became  vacant,  Jan- 
uary 6,  1888,  at  which  time  Samuel  Ferguson  ceased  his  earthly 
life  and  labors.  For  more  than  a  year  preceding  he  had  been  suf- 
fering with  a  threatening  illness,  and  only  once  in  that  period  was 
he  able  to  appear  at  service,  where,  while  in  health,  he  was  unfail- 
ingly present.  Mr.  Ferguson  was  a  constant  reader  and  ardent 
lover  of  the  Bible,  having  read  it  through  in  course  many  times, 
and  many  passages  he  could  repeat  from  memory.  Messrs.  Bush 
and  Fry  constitute  the  present  session. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

A  Sabbath  School  has  been  in  operation  in  connection  with  the 
church  from  the  beginning,  held  for  many  years  only  during  the 
summer,  but  more  recently  kept  open  through  the  winter  also.  No 
full  and  accurate  record  of  its  history  and  work  is  at  hand.  So  far 
as  known  its  superintendents  have  been  Samuel  Mahaffey,  James 
H.  Redick,  L.  ISI.  Mahaffey,  Samuel  Ferguson,  D.  G.  Fry  and 
Samuel  T.  Redick. 

The  first  clerk  of  the  session  was  Samuel  Mahaffey.  He  was 
succeded  by  James  H.  Redick.  When  Rev.  J.  H.  Aughe)  was 
pastor,  he  procured  a  new  record  book  and  transcribed  the  contents 
of  the  old  book  into  it.  During  the  entire  pastorate  of  Rev.  D.  H. 
Sloan  he  served  as  clerk  of  the  session.  The  present  clerk  is  D.  G. 
Fry.  About  1885,  a  Ladies'  Foreign  Missionary  Society  was 
organized,  and  about  ten  years  later  a  young  people's  Home  Mis- 
sionary Society. 

The  service  of  praise  for  many  years  was  led  chiefly  by  Samuel 
and  Lewis  M.  Mahaffey.  Since  the  removal  of  the  latter  in  1885 
no  one  has  been  specially  designated  as  leader.  When  the  present 
church  was  entered  an  organ  was  introduced.  The  organists  in 
turn  have  been  Katie  V.  Mahaffey  (Mrs.  Abner  Atkinson)  Lida 
Atkinson  and  Anna  A.  Bush. 

Though  this  church  has  accomplished  a  manifestly  good  work, 
it  has  never  been  very  strong  numerically.  With  an  unbridged 
river  on  one  side  and  girt    about  by  other  congregations,  its  field  of 


148  HISTORY    OF    THE 


operations  has  been  thus  limited.  The  dechnc  of  traffic  on  the 
Allegheny  river  occasioned  by  the  extension  of  the  Allegheny 
Valley  Railroad  affected  adversely  the  village  of  Clinton, 
and  many  families  once  connected  with  the  church  have  removed  to 
other  localities.  The  largest  number  of  active  members  upon  the 
roll  of  the  church  at  one  time  was  seventy-eight  in  1884.  At  pres- 
ent the  number  is  about  sixty. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  149 


CONCORD. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY  REV.  JAMES  M.  KELLY. 


TVTttTTrTTTTTTTT 


In  the  year  1839,  Rev,  John  Caruthers,  a  student  of  theology, 
came  into  Wayne  township,  Armstrong  county.  Pa.,  and  preaclied 
for  some  months  in  John  Alcorn's  barn.  In  October  a  petition 
was  carried  to  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville  asking  for  an  organiza- 
tion. The  petition  was  granted,  and  Rev.  Joseph  Painter  and  Rev. 
Elisha  D.  Barret  were  appointed  a  committee  to  organize  the  church. 
In  accordance  with  the  above  action  Rev.  Joseph  Painter,  Rev. 
Mr.  Barret  not  being  presentj  met  the  petitioners  at  the  double  log 
barn  of  Joseph  Clever,  on  the  2d  day  of  April,  1840,  and  organized 
Concord  church. 

The  original  members  were:  John  Alcorn  and  his  wife  Eliza- 
beth, William  McCain  and  his  wife  Rebecca,  John  Calhoun  and 
his  wife  Catharine,  Noah  A.  Calhoun  and  his  wife  Mary,  Samuel 
H.  Porter  and  his  wife  Nancy,  William  Marshall  and  his  wife 
Rebecca,  James  White.  None  of  these  original  members  are  now 
living  except  Noah  A.  Calhoun. 

PASTORS    AND    STATED    SUPPLIES. 

Mr.  Caruthers  having  gone  to  another  field,  the  pastorate  was 
vacant  for  eighteen  months,  when  Rev.  Joseph  Painter  was  appointed 
stated  supply.  He  began  his  labors  April  1,  1841,  and  served  in 
this  capacity  eleven  years,  giving  the  congregation  one-third  of  his 
time.  During  his  ministrations  eighty-six  persons  were  admitted  to 
the  church,  and  the  sacrament  of  baptism  was  administered  to 
eighty-one  persons. 


150  HISTORY    OF    THE 


After  a  vacancy  of  one  year,  Rev.  Cochran  Forbes  was  -^alleci 
to  the  pastorate  for  one-third  of  his  time,  at  a  congregational  meet- 
ing moderated  by  Rev.  Mr.  Stark,  April,  1854.  At  a  meeting  of 
the  Presbytery  during  the  same  month  he  accepted  the  call,  and 
began  his  labor  the  1st  Sabbath  of  May.  On  the  2d  of  June,  1854, 
he  was  installed  by  a  committee  of  the  Presbytery,  consisting  of 
Revs,  Orr,  Stark  and  Caruthers.  Mr.  Forbes  preached  his  fare- 
well sermon  May  5,  1856.  During  his  pasto'-ate  forty-eight  mem- 
bers were  added  to  the  church,  and  thirty-four  infants  were  baptized. 

Concord  and  Glade  Run  then  united  in  calling  Rev.  G.  W, 
Mechlin,  each  half  time,  and  he  was  installed  Febiuary  20,  1857. 
This  pastorate  continued  until  April  13,  1865,  when  Mr.  Mechlin 
resigned,  in  order  that  he  might  devote  his  whole  time  to  Glade 
Run.  During  his  ministrations  107  members  were  added  to  the 
church,  and  eighty-five  infants  and  thirteen  adults  received  the  sac- 
rament of  baptism.  The  total  number  of  communicants  since  the 
organization  has  been  244,  adults  baptized  21,  number  of  members 
in  communion  April  1,  1865,  151,  amount  contributed  to  benevolent 
objects  during  the  history  of  the  congregation,  $591.00. 

After  the  resignation  of  Mr.  Mechlin,  Rev.  J.  M.  Jones  sup- 
plied the  pulpit  one-half  time  until  March  23,  1867,  when  at  a 
congregational  meeting  moderated  by  Mr.  Jones,  a  call  was  made 
out  for  the  services  of  Mr.  H.  Magill  for  one  half  time  at  an  annual 
salary  of  $450,00.  Mr.  Magill  was  then  a  student  of  the  Western 
Theological  Seminary  and  a  licentiate  of  the  Presbytery  of  Steu- 
benville.  He  accepted  the  call,  and  was  ordained  and  installed 
May  9,  1867.  This  pastoral  relation  continued  until  October  1, 
1872,  when  Mr.  Magill  resigned,  in  order  that  he  might  accept  a 
call  to  Apollo.  During  his  pastorate  eighty-three  persons  were 
admitted  to  the  communion  of  the  church.  The  total  membership 
at  the  close  of  his  pastorate  was  159.  The  total  amount  contributed 
to  the  boards  and  benevolent  objects  of  the  church  up  to  the  year 
1872  was  $1,753.00. 

After  a  vacancy  of  six  months  the  congregation  made  out  a  call 
for  the  services  of  Mr.  F.  E.  Thompson,  a  licentiate,  for  the  half  of 
his  time,  at  an  annual  salary  of  $500.00.  The  call  was  accepted, 
and  the  pastor  was  ordained,  June  24,  1873,  and  installed  at  Con- 
covd,  July  9,  1878.  At  the  winter  meeting  of  the  Presbytery, 
1875,  Mr.  Thompson  was  released  from  the  Mahoning  charge,  and 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KXTTANNING.  151 

was  regularly  made  the  pastor  of  Concord  all  his  time.  This 
iirrangement  became  effective,  January  1,  1876.  Mr.  Thompson 
resigned  March  24,  1877.  During  his  ministrations  fifty- eight 
members  were  added  to  the  church.  A  Women's  Missionary 
Society  was  organized,  August  1,  1874,  whose  annual  contribution 
was  $50.00. 

After  a  vacancy  of  two  years  and  a  half,  Rev.  H.  Magill  again 
came  to  the  charge  as  stated  supply.  He  served  the  church  in  this 
capacity  until  November  28,  1880.  The  congregation  made  out  a 
call  for  him  to  become  their  regular  pastor  the  whole  ot  his  time,  at 
an  annual  salary  ot  $900.00,  but  he  declined  in  order  that  he  might 
go  to  another  field  of  labor.  During  this  term  of  Mr.  Magill's 
ministry  at  Concord  there  was  a  revival  of  religion,  in  which 
seventy  persons  were  admitted  to  the  church. 

During  the  summer  of  1881,  Mr.  W.  O.  Thompson,  a  licentiate, 
supplied  the  pulpit  one-half  time. 

On  the  3d  Sabbath  of  February,  1882,  Mr.  J.  M.  Kelly,  a 
member  of  the  Senior  Class  in  the  Western  Theological  Seminary 
and  a  licentiate  ol  rhe  Presbytery  of  Mahoning,  occupied  the  pulpit. 
By  invitation  he  returned  and  preached  two  weeks  from  that  day, 
to  a  large  congregation.  At  the  close  of  the  services  the  congrega- 
tion tendered  him  informally  a  unanimous  call  to  become  their  pas- 
tor. The  call  was  formally  made  out  at  a  meeting  held  April  7, 
1882,  and  moderated  by  Rev.  G.  W.  Mechlin,  D.  D.  It  calls  for 
two-thirds  of  the  pastor's  time,  at  an  annual  salary  of  $700. (tO. 
Mr.  Kelly  continued  to  supply  the  pulpit  until  the  last  Tuesday  of 
April,  1882,  when  calls  were  presented  to  him  from  Concord  and 
Plumville.  The  calls  were  accepted,  and  the  Presbytery  made 
arrangements  for  his  ordination  and  installation.  The  ordination 
occurred  at  Glade  Run,  June  28,  1882,  and  in  the  afternoon  of  the 
same  day  he  was  installed  as  pastor  of  Concord  by  a  committee  ot 
the  Presbytery,  consisting  of  Rev.  G.  W.  Mechlin,  D.  D.,  Rev. 
D.  H.  Sloan,  Rev.  J.  E.  Leyda  and  Rev.  L.  Mechlin.  During  the 
present  pastorate  torty-five  members  have  been  added  to  the  church, 
and  fifty  infants  and  three  adults  have  received  the  sacrament  of 
baptism.  The  contributions  to  the  benevolent  objects  of  the 
church  have  been  over  $300.00  and  $700.00  has  been  expended  in 
repairing   and   refurnishing  the  church  building.       An   organ  has 


152  HISTORY    OF    THE 


been  introduced  in  the  praise  service.  The  Presbyterian  Hymnal 
has  taken  the  place  of  the  old  book  of  Psalms  and  Hymns.  A 
Women's  Home  and  Foreign  Missionary  Society  has  been 
organized,  which  contributes  annually  $50.00. 


RULING    ELDERS. 


Mr.  John  Alcorn  and  Mr.  vSamuel  H.  Porter  were  elected  to 
the  office  of  ruling  elder,  ordained  and  installed  at  organization, 
April  2,  1840.  Mr,  Alcorn  continued  to  act  as  ruling  elder  until 
his  death,  November  10,  1876.  Mr.  S.  H.  Porter  ceased  to  act  at 
his  own  request,  and  by  reason  of  bodily  infirmity,  November  4, 
1882.  He  died  July  16,  1887.  Mr.  John  Calhoun,  formerly  an 
elder  in  Glade  Run  church,  was  elected  and  installed  at  Concord, 
October  18,  1841.  He  died  May,  1874.  Mr.  William  Irwin  and 
Mr.  Robert  M.  Anthony  were  elected,  and  ordained  and  installed 
May  14,  1858.  Mr.  Anthony  was  dismissed  by  certificate  Septem  • 
ber  16,  1865.  Ivlr.  William  Irwin  is  still  living,  but  ceased  to  act 
as  elder  by  reason  of  bodily  infirmity,  November  4,  1872.  Mr.  John 
Sheridan  was  ordained  as  elder,  June  3,  1854,  and  was  dismissed 
October  30,  1854.  Dr.  J.  H.  Wick  was  ordained  June  3,  1854.  He 
has  also  been  dismissed. 

Much  of  the  prosperity  of  the  church  has  been  due  to  the  pietj' 
and  earnestness  of  those  pioneer  elders.  Mr.  Alcorn,  Judge  Cal- 
houn and  Mr.  Porter  served  the  church  long  and  faithfully.  To 
Mr.  Porter  the  present  pastor  is  indebted  tor  much  good  counsel 
and  encouragement  in  his  work.  Mr.  Craig  Thom,  formerly  a 
ruling  elder  in  the  Presbyterian  church  of  New  Bethlehem,  was 
installed  September  3,  1865.  Mr.  Robert  O.  Clever  and  Mr.  D. 
P.  Marshall  were  ordained  and  installed  as  elders,  February  9, 1868. 
Mr.  James  Foreman  was  elected  elder,  October  9,  1874,  and  was 
ordained  and  installed  soon  after.  Mr.  William  Troutman  and  Mr. 
John  Brown  were  elected  to  the  office  of  ruling  elder,  and  were 
ordained  and  installed  November  4,  1882.  Mr.  D.  P.  Marshall  was 
dismissed  by  certificate,  August  28,  1877,  and  Mr.  John  Brown, 
September,  26,  1884.  The  others  are  still  with  us,  and  constitute 
the  present  session. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  158 

CHURCH    BUILDINGS. 

Up  to  the  time  of  the  organization  the  cong-regation  had  no 
church  building.  Mr.  John  Alcorn's  and  Mr.  Joseph  Clever's 
double  log  barn  were  the  places  where  all  religious  meetings  were 
held.  Mr.  Joseph  Clever  kindly  offered  the  congregation  ground 
on  which  to  build  the  church,  and  also  for  a  cemetery.  Mr. 
Clever's  generous  offer  was  accepted,  and  the  work  of  building  was 
begun  during  the  fall  of  1841,  and  completed  in  the  summer  of 
1842.  The  contract  was  let  to  Esq.  Glenn  for  the  compensation  of 
$500.00,  for  a  frame  building  30  by  50  feet.  The  site  selected  was 
a  plot  of  ground  on  the  public  road,  and  near  a  summit  ot  what  is 
kr.own  as  Clever's  hill  or  knob,  which  commands  a  view  of  the 
surrounding  country  for  many  miles.  The  interior  arrangement  of 
the  structure  was  of  a  style  characteristic  of  those  days.  The  seats 
were  straight-backed,  the  aisles  uncarpeted,  the  walls  unadorned, 
the  pulpit  was  high,  with  a  srcat  near  the  minister  for  the  "  clerk," 
who  "  lined  out "  the  psalm  and  led  the  congregation  in  singing. 
This  house  was  used  by  the  congregation  until  Februarv,  1865. 

On  February  10,  1868,  a  committee  consisting  of  S.  vS.  N. 
Calhoun,  Thomas  Ritchey  and  G.  W.  Goheen  was  appointed  to 
prepare  a  charter  of  incorporation.  The  charter  was  prepared  and 
adopted  by  the  congi'egation,  and  granted  by  the  court,  September 
10,  1863. 

At  the  same  meeting  the  congregation  resolved  to  build  a  new 
church  edifice.  The  same  committee  was  continued  as  a  building 
committee.  On  January  9,  1864,  the  trustees  let  the  contract  to 
Mr.  Henry  Anthony  at  $2,050.00  for  a  frame  structure  46  bv  60 
feet.  Owing  to  the  excitement  occasioned  by  the  civil  war,  and 
the  difficulty  experienced  in  getting  material,  the  new  house  was 
not  completed  until  February  23,  1865,  when  it  was  duly  dedicated 
and  occupied  by  the  congregation.  This  house  with  the  repairs 
and  transformation  made  in  the  summer  of  1882,  is  still  the  spiritual 
home  of  Concord  people.  Its  location  is  on  the  opposite  side  of  the 
public  road,  and  near  the  site  of  the  old  church. 

GENERAL    REMARKS. 

A  glance  at  the  foregoing  narrative  will  show  that  the  church 
has  had  five  pastors  and  four  stated  supplies  during  its  history.  The 
longest    period  of  service    by    any    one    minister  was    that    of  Dr. 

20 


154 


HISTORY    OF    THE 


Painter,  which  lasted  eleven  years.  The  longest  pastorate  was  that 
of  Dr.  Mechlin,  which  lasted  eight  years.  The  shortest  pastorate 
was  that  of  Rev.  C  Forbes,  which  lasted  not  quite  two  years. 

The  churcli  has  had  a  Sabbath  School  ever  since  the  organiza- 
tion. Sometimes  as  many  as  three  schools  have  been  maintained  in 
different  sections  of  the  congregation.  We  hope  soon  to  overcome 
the  difficulty  in  the  way  of  good  attendance  during  the  winter 
months  by  again  organizing  Sabbath  Schools  at  some  of  the  school 
houses  within  the  bounds  of  the  church.  One  of  our  Sabbath 
School  scholars,  Rev.  Joseph  P.  Calhoun,  is  now  in  the  ministry  of 
the  Presbyterian  church,  and  two  others,  Harvy  Zimmerman  and 
Harry  Calhoun,  are  in  course  of  preparation. 

The  vacancy  which  followed  the  period  ot  1880  worked  an 
injury  to  the  church  in  bringing  about  a  low  condition  of  spiritual 
life  and  a  consequent  falling  off  of  the  membership.  At  the  begin- 
ning of  the  present  pastorate  the  actual  membership  was  consider- 
ably less  than  190,  the  number  last  reported.  The  actual  member- 
ship is  now  185.  The  accessions  to  the  roll  have  been  almost  con- 
stant, but  the  depletion  by  death  and  removal  has  prevented  any 
great  increase  of  the  membership.  In  a  community  such  as  ours, 
where  there  are  but  a  very  few  families  not  already  members  of 
some  church,  tlie  most  that  the  church  can  do  is  to  gather  from 
the  Sabbath  School  and  strive  to  hold  the  ground  already  occupied. 

The  people  have  had  "  a  mind  to  work,"  and  progress  has  been 
made  in  many  directions.  There  are,  however,  many  difficulties  in 
the  way  of  progress,  and  the  need  of  improvement  along  the  line 
of  Christian  aggressiveness  is  apparent.  The  majority  of  the  pas- 
torates have  been  short,  while  there  has  been  quite  a  number  of 
vacancies  of  long  duration.  This  has  affected  the  spiritual  life  and 
retarded  the  progress  of  the  church  in  many  ways. 

Many  contribute  to  the  support  of  the  gospel  cheerfully  ami 
liberally,  but  some,  as  is  the  case  with  many  churches,  give  without 
a  proper  appreciation  of  the  claims  of  the  cause  upon  their  ability 
and  liberality.  The  congregation  is  made  up  almost  entirely  of 
farmers,  to  whom  a  favorable  or  unfavorable  season  means  much  in 
the  matter  of  ability  to  give. 

The  territory  included  in  the  bounds  of  the  congregation  is  one 
of  great  distances,  reaching  from  east  to  west  ten  miles,  and  from 
north  to  soutli  ten  miles.  Many  of  the  people  travel  six  miles,  some 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  155 

seven  miles  to  church.  Distance,  storm  and  bad  roads  affect  attend- 
ance and  work.  Tlie  relation  between  pastor  and  people  is  pleas- 
ant and  cordial,  hut  the  life  of  the  church  has  been  clouded  during 
much  of  the  past  year  by  sectional  division  growing  out  of  circum- 
^t-tnces  outside  of  the  chui-ch,  which  were  unforeseen  and  scarcely 
avoidable.  We  trust  the  crisis  is  now  past.  There  are  now  mani- 
fest signs  of  greater  union  and  more  earnest  work  in  the  Master's 
cause.  We  thank  God  and  take  courage  for  the  future.  By  God's 
blessing  we  shall  have  "  understanding  of  the  times  to  know  what 
Israel  ought  to  do;"  and  our  light  shall  shine  and  our  labor  of  love 
abound  until  God  shall  call  us  from  our  earthly  Concord  to  the 
sweet  and  perfect  concord  of  His  love  in  heaven. 


156  HISTORY    OF    THE 


CROOKED  CREEK. 


BY    REV.    J.    P.    CALHOUN. 


There  is  now  no  official  record  of  the  organization  of  this 
church,  and  it  is  likely  no  such  record  was  ever  made.  Three 
years  after  it  had  an  existence,  we  find  mention  made  of  it  in  the 
minutes  of  Redstone  Presbytery,  where  it  is  stated  that  Rev.  David 
Barclay  was  appointed  tosupply  a  day  at  discretion.  It  can,  how- 
ever, be  confidently  stated  upon  authority  of  those  living  within 
our  bounds,  that  Crooked  Creek  church  was  organized  in  the  year 
or  winter  of  1825  with  the  following  fifteen  persons  as  original 
members:  Alexande--  Walker,  Robert  Walker,  Mai-y  Walker, 
John  Walker,  Nancy  Walker,  George  Gourley,  Nancy  Gcurley, 
James  Kilgore,  Sarah  Kilgore,  Andrew  Steret,  George  Elliot, 
Annie  ElJiot,  James  Hall,  Sarah  Hall,  Jane  Hall. 

PASTORS    AND    SUPPLIES. 

A  Rev.  Mr.  Lee  was  the  first  minister  who  preached  within 
the  bounds  of  this  church,  as  far  as  known.  His  preaching  must 
have  been  before  the  organization  of  the  church,  as  that  was 
effected  by  Rev.  Nathaniel  R.  Snowden  in  the  winter  of  1825 
with  the  above  named  micmbers.  Mr.  Snowden  served  the  church 
as  stated  supply  until  the  year  1827,  a  period  of  about  two  years, 
when  he  ceased  to  act  in  this  capacity.  Then,  with  but  an 
occasional  sermon,  there  was  a  vacancy  for  three  years,  when,  in 
1830,  Rev.  James  Campbell  was  called  for  fourth  time  at  a  salary 
of  $100  a  year.  The  installation  services  were  held  in  Kittanning, 
the  other  part  of  his  charge,  August  11,  1830.  This  was  apparently 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  157 

an  auspicious  day  for  a  very  feeble  congregation.  The  field  was 
large.  No  other  church  had  been  organized  between  Kittanning 
and  Apollo  or  Elder's  Ridge,  The  need  was  great  and  the  oppor- 
tunity of  Crooked  Creek  was  at  hand.  How  disappointing  then 
to  have  to  state  that  this  settlement  was  of  only  a  few  months' 
duration  when  Mr.  Campbell  resigned  the  charge  without  having 
observed  a  communion  season  during  his  brief  pastorate.  A  fore- 
boding interval  of  ten  years  now  occurred  before  another  pastor 
was  secured.  But  Rev.  Joseph  Painter,  of  Kittanning,  by  an 
occasional  service,  succeeded  in  holding  the  ground  and  keeping 
the  organization  intact,  and  during  the  year  1839  the  church  was 
supplied  by  Rev.  John  Kerr,  then  a  teacher  in  the  Academy  at  Kit' 
tanning. 

In  the  next  year,  1840,  Rev.  Mr.  Graves  was  called  for  fourth 
time,  and  installed  at  a  salary  of  $100.  During  his  pastorate  of 
seven  years  the  church  grew  and  prospered,  and  his  labors  among 
the  people  were  highly  blessed.  In  1847  Mr.  Graves  resigned  his 
charge,  and  five  years  now  elapsed  with  only  an  occasional  service 
by  some  sujDply. 

In  1852  Mr.  Graves  a  second  time  took  charge  of  this  church, 
hut  resigned  after  a  service  of  one  year,  leaving  the  congregation 
in  a  more  healthy  and  vigorous  condition  than  it  had  ever  before 
enjoyed. 

Rev.  Wm.  Colledge  was  now  called  and  installed,  and  served 
the  church  acceptably  until  the  year  1860,  when  he  resigned.  His 
salary  was  $200  a  year  for  half  time.  There  was  a  gradual 
growth  and  work  of  grace  during  Mr.  C's  pastorate,  which  he 
resigned  because  of  impaired  health. 

Rev.  Geo.  K.  Scott  was  the  next  pastor,  who  was  installed 
May  8,  1867,  served  the  church  this  time  for  three  years,  resigning 
the  charge  in  1870.  Mr.  Scott  is  said  to  have  haen  a  vigorous  and 
very  instructive    preacher. 

Mr.  Graves  again  supplied  the  charge  for  a  number  of  years 
until  in  April,  1875,  Rev.  P.  Baker  was  called  and  installed  pastor. 
May  28.  He  had  charge  also  of  Appleby  Manor  and  Boiling 
Spring.  He  served  in  this  capacity  for  a  period  of  eight  years, 
resigning  the  charge  and  being  released  January  29,  1883.  Mr. 
Baker's  ministry  in  this  field  was  a  successful  one,  and  he  was 
greatly  beloved  by  his  people.     During  his  pastorate  nearly  eighty 


158  HISTORY    OF    THE 


persons  were  admitted  to  the  membership,  and  the  record  of  these 
eight  years  will  always  be  a  bright  page  in  the  history  of  this 
church. 

In  the  fall  of  1884,  Crooked  Creek  church  passed  under  the 
care  of  the  writer  of  these  notes,  as  stated  supply,  and  he  has  since 
served  the  church  in  this  capacity.  During  the  past  two  years 
upwards  of  thirty  persons  have  been  added  to  the  membership. 
Peace  and  harmony  have  constantly  prevailed  with  a  growing 
interest  in  the  things  of  the  Spirit.  We  hope  the  same  har- 
monious action  and  spiritual  interest  may  prove  to  be  a  part  of 
all  the  future  history  of  this  church. 

ELDERS. 

The  first  elders  of  this  church  were  Alexander  Walker,  who 
died  February  1,  1826;  Robert  Walker,  who  died  April  5,  1872; 
James  Kilgore  and  George  Gourley.  The  dates  of  the  death  of 
the  last  two  are  not  known.  In  1847,  Hamilton  Kelly  and 
Matthew  Jack  were  added  to  the  session.  These  both  have  been 
dead  for  a  number  of  years.  W.  W.  Beatty  was  added  in  1851 
and  dismissed  in  1863.  In  1853  Absalom  Beatty  and  James  Kerr 
were  inducted  into  office,  the  former  of  whom  died  September  29, 
1882.  In  1871,  James  C.  Burford  and  John  Brown  were  added  to 
the  session,  the  former  of  whom  served  to  1874,  and  the  latter  to 
1881.  S.J.  Walker  and  George  A.  Kelly  were  installed  Novem- 
ber 13,  1880,  the  former  of  whom  served  till  hi^  removal,  April, 
1884,  and  the  latter  to  December,  1886.  The  last  addition  was 
made  June  25,  1887,  when  John  Walker,  Peter  Dunmire  and 
Philip  Miller,  were  inducted  into  office.  These  three,  with  James 
Kerr,  constitute  the  present  session.       Mr.  Kerr  is  clerk  of  session. 

SABBATH    SCHOOL. 

The  Sabbath  School  was  first  organized  in  1837  or  1838,  with 
James  C.  Kerr  as  superintendent.  Other  superintendents  have 
been  Robert  Walker,  James  Kerr,  John  Brown  and  John  Walker. 

CHURCH    BUILDINGS. 

About  the  time  of  the  organization  of  the  church,  an  attempt 
was  made  to  build  a  church.  This  effort  resulted  in  a  building  of 
logs,  without   windows,  doors  or    floor.      A    few    sermons    were 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  159 

preached  within  the  enclosure,  the  people  finding  such  seats  as 
might  be  on  the  ground  in  the  form  of  stumps,  stones  or  pieces  of 
logs. 

In  1834,  Rev,  Joseph  Painter  visited  this  congregation  and 
writes  of  it  in  his  journal  as  follows: 

"  The  people  had  ceased  to  attend  church  among  themselves,  and  though 
they  had  commenced  some  years  before  to  erect  a  church  they  had  not 
finished  it.  They  had  cut  and  hewed  and  put  up  logs  for  a  church  and  had  it 
under  roof.  The  places  for  the  doors  were  cut  out,  but  the  house  never  had  a 
floor,  or  doors  or  windows,  and  the  wide  places  between  the  logs  had  never 
been  closed.  When  I  first  saw  it,  I  noticed  some  sheep  reposing  on  the 
ground  within  the  log  enclosure.  In  fact  the  building  appeared  to  be  the 
resort  of  all  kinds  of  cattle  that  grazed  about  through  the  woods.  They  had 
free  ingress  into  it  and  egress  out  of  it." 

Rev.  P  Baker  in  his  history  of  the  church  says: 

"  In  1840  this  pile  of  logs  was  taken  down  and  used  in  constructing  the 
first  church  building  this  congregation  ever  really  possessed." 

It  was  of  hewn  logs,  and  in  it  the  congregation  worshiped  for 
about  thirty-one  years.  The  cost  may  be  put  at  $200.  The 
present  house  of  worship  was  erected  in  1870,  at  a  cost  of  $1,300. 
It  is  a  frame  structure,  with  a  seating  capacity  of  about  250  or  300, 
comfortable  in  every  way,  and  well  adapted  to  the  taste  and  demands 
of  more  modern  times. 

This  congregation  has,  therefore,  had  three  church  buildings. 
The  first  in  1825,  never  having  been  completed,  but  used  for  a  time 
for  worship;  the  second  erected  in  1840,  and  used  for  thirty-one 
years;    the  third  and  present  building  erected  in   1870. 

REVIVALS. 

No  noted  revivals  have  occurred  in  the  history  of  the  church, 
but  rather  a  gradual  growth  in  grace  and  development  of  Christian 
character.  It  may  also  be  worthy  of  mention  that,  with  only  three 
or  four  exceptions,  all  the  baptized  members  now  living  who  have 
arrived  at  years  of  discretion  are  in  the  full  communion  of  the 
church. 


160  HISTORY    OF    THE 


CURRIERS  RUN. 


BY    REV.    LYCURGUS    MECHLIN, 


ORGANIZATION, 


Currie's  Run  Presbyterian  Church  was  organized  July  7,  1838, 
The  committee  on  organization  was  appointed  by  the  Presbytery 
of  Blairsville,  consisting  of  Revs.  Reed,  Barrett  and  Johnston. 
Robert  M.  Walker  and  William  Anthony  were  elected  ruling" 
elders,  and  on  the  7th  of  July,  1838,  were  ordained  and  installed  by 
Revs.  Reed  and  Barrett. 

The  original  members  were  twenty-nine  in  number,  as  follows: 
R.  M.  Walker,  Mrs.  Jane  Walker,  John  Robinson,  Mrs.  Jane 
Robinson,  R.  T.  Robinson,  Mrs.  Nancy  Robinson,  Samuel  Bothel, 
Mrs.  Elizabeth  Bothel,  Alexander  Beatty,  Mrs.  Deborah  Beatty, 
Robert  Beatty,  Mrs.  Nancy  Beatty,  Reuben  Jewell,  Mrs.  Jemima 
Jewell,  David  Anthony,  Mrs.  Floranna  Anthony,  James  AIcElhose, 
Mrs.  Nancy  McElhose,  Thomas  Lucas,  Mrs.  Mary  Lucas,  Joseph 
Peelor,  Mrs.  Nancy  Peelor,  John  Lucas,  Mrs.  Susannah  Lucas, 
William  Anthony,  Mrs.  Nancy  Anthony,  Miss  Sarah  Beatty,  Miss 
J.  E.  Anthony,  Miss  Margaret  Anthony.  The  only  one  of  the 
original  members  now  in  communion  of  the  church  is  Miss 
Margaret  Anthony,  now  the  wife  of  S.  C.  Henderson. 

HOUSE    OF    WORSHIP. 

The  only  lot  of  ground  owned  by  the  congregation  is  that  upon 
which  the  church  building  stands.  It  contains  about  two  acres,  and 
was  donated  to  the  congregation  by  Mr.  John  Robinson.       A  part 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  161 


of  it  is  used  for  a  burial  ground,  and  a  part  of  it  is  still  covered  with 
forest  trees. 

The  present  and  only  house  of  worship  occupied  by  the  congre- 
gation was  erected  in  the  fall  of  1887,  but  was  not  finished  until  the 
summer  of  1838.  It  is  a  frame  building  40  by  45  feet,  14  feet  ceil- 
ing, resting  upon  six  posts,  two  aisles  running  in  front  of  the  pulpit. 
There  weie  four  outside  doors.  In  1865  the  house  was  repaired, 
and  the  door  at  the  south  end  of  the  cross  aisle  was  taken  out  and  a 
window  put  in  its  place.     The  repairing  at  this  time  cost  $500. 

Mr.  "  Stiller  "  Jemmie  Bothel  was  the  contractor.  The  cost  of 
the  building  completed  was  $1,400. 

In  the  fall  of  1837,  when  Mr.  William  Anthony  presented  a 
memorial,  asking  an  organization.  Presbytery  complained  that  steps 
had  been  taken  for  the  building  of  a  church  already,  and  passed 
a  resolution  then,  that  such  a  step  would  be  a  barrier  to  an  organ- 
ization of  a  church.  The  church  is  located  one  mile  and  a  quarter 
east  of  Shelocta,  on  the  Kittanning  and  Indiana  pike,  near  Crooked 
creek.     It  was  never  formally  dedicated. 

PASTORS    AND    STATED    SUPPLIES. 

Mr.  Alexander  Donaldson  preached  for  the  congregation  on 
the  second  Sabbath  of  June,  1838,  while  the  scaffolding  was  still 
up  in  and  around  the  house.  After  being  supplied  for  the  next 
three  months  by  Rev.  Edward  R.  Geary,  the  Presbytery  of  Blairs- 
ville  appointed  Mr.  A.  Donaldson  stated  supply  for  six  months. 
At  the  expiration  of  this  period  he  was  unanimously  chosen  their 
pastor,  and  was  installed  for  one-half  time  on  the  20th  of  June, 
1839.  He  continued  to  be  their  pastor  for  fourteen  years.  "  Then, 
with  warm  affection  subsisting  between  the  pastor  and  every 
member  of  the  flock,  and  the  other  part  of  the  charge  wanting  all 
the  time,  the  relation  was  dissolved  in  the  spring  of  1853."  The 
Scotch  version  of  the  psalms  was  in  use  all  this  time.  The  singing 
was  led  by  two  clerks,  who  stood  in  front  of  the  pulpit.  And  for 
about  three  years  the  psalm  was  lined  out  in  couplets  at  a  time. 
The  communion  was  administered  with  the  communicants  seated 
around  tables  placed  in  the  cross  aisle,  and  tokens  of  admission 
were  also  used. 

Large  numbers  walked  to  church,  some  of  them  as  far  as  six, 
seven  or  even  eight  miles.       It  was   no  unusual   sight  on   Sabbath 

21 


162  HISTORY    OP'    THE 


mornin<^  to  see  as  many  as  forty  walking  to  the  house  of  God  in 
company.  The  church  was  greatly  hlesscd  during  these  fourteen 
years.     Foundation  work  was  laid,  which  remains  to  this  day. 

Rev.  Franklin  Orr  was  unanimously  elected  pastor,  Octoher  3, 
1858,  and  was  installed  for  one-half  lime  on  the  11th  of  November 
following.  He  served  the  congregation  with  acceptance  and  good 
success  for  nearly  five  years,  when  the  pastoral  relation  was 
dissolved  in  the  spring  of  1858,  in  order  that  he  might  give  his 
wl.ole  time  to  the  territory  then  covered  by  his  other  church. 
There  was  peace  and  harmony  among  the  members  and  a  good 
degree  of  religious  interest.  No  communion  season  passed  without 
some  additions  to  the  membership.  In  the  beginning  of  his  pastor- 
ate the  change  of  psalmody  took  place.  "  Some  few  families  and 
individuals  left  on  that  ground  and  united  with  the  United  Presby- 
terian Church,  organized  about  that  time  near  Shelocta."  "  I  must 
add,"  says  Mr.  Orr,  "  that  the  congregation  was  blessed  with  a 
good,  intelligent  and  faithful  eldership  at  that  time,  who  stood  by 
their  young  and  inexperienced  pastor  faithfully." 

Mr.  M.  M.  Shirley  supplied  the  pulpit  from  April  1,  1858,  to 
June  80,  18o9,  when  he  was  chosen  pastor,  ordained  and  installed 
for  two-thirds  time,  giving  the  other  third  to  Cherry  Run.  Serious 
opposition  aiising,  he  resigned  in  the  spring  of  1868.  Mr.  Shirley 
was  horn  near  Saltshurg,  Fa.,  February  27,  1829.  At  the  age  of 
twenty  ye;irs  he  professed  faith  in  Christ,  and  united  with  the 
Presbyterian  Church  of  Saltshurg.  He  prepared  for  college  at  the 
Saltshurg  Academy,  and  entered  Wa*jhington  College,  b'lt  did  not 
graduate.  He  studied  theology  with  Dr.  W.  W.  VV-'oodend  and  at 
the  Western  Theological  Seminary,  though  not  graduating.  He 
was  licensed  by  the  Presbytery  of  Saltshurg,  April  7,  1858,  and 
was  onlaintd  hy  the  same  Presbytery,  June  30,  1859.  His  first 
charge  was  Ctierry  Run  and  Currie's  Run.  He  was  dismissed  to 
the  Presbytery  of  Clarion,  and  received  by  that  body,  October  9, 
1864,  and  was  installed  over  the  churches  of  Academia,  Emlenton 
and  Rockland,  June  20,  1865. 

He  was  received  by  the  Presbytery  of  Erie  in  1868,  and 
appointed  stated  supply  of  the  churches  of  Utica  and  Waterloo 
until  May  11,  1878,  when  he  was  installed  pastor  over  the  churches 
of  Utica,  Waterloo  and  Mt.  Pleasant.  He  was  released  from 
Waterloo,  Octoher  20,  1877,  and  remained  pastor  of  Utica  and  Mt. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  163 

Pleasant  until  his  death,  which  occurred  at  Waterloo,  Pa.,  July  22, 
1879,  of  consumption.  He  left  a  wife  and  six  children.  The 
youngest  son  is  a  student  at  Wooster  University,  and  is  a  candidate 
for  the  gospel  ministry. 

The  congregation  was  supplied  by  the  Presbytery  and  other- 
wise until  March,  1865,  when  Rev.  H.  K.  Hennigh  became  stated 
supply  for  the  remainder  of  the  year.  He  then  left  and  soon  after 
removed  from  the  bounds  of  the  Presbytery.  He  is  now  a  member 
of  the  Iowa  Presbytery,  reported  an  evangelist,  with  postoffice 
address,  Bonaparte,  Iowa. 

Then,  after  a  vacancy  of  three  years,  being  supplied  by  the 
Presbytery  and  students  from  the  Western  Theological  Seminar^', 
some  of  whom  the  congregation  would  gladly  have  cilled  as  pas- 
tor. Rev.  George  K.  Scott  was  elected  pastor  in  the  spring  of 
1869.  Although  his  pastorate  was  the  briefest  in  the  history  of  the 
congregation,  yet  he  did  good  work,  and  he  is  kindly  remembered 
to  this  day.  He  tendered  his  resignation,  and  the  pastoral  relation 
was  dissolved  in  the  spring  of  1871.  He  is  now  stated  supply  for 
a  mission  church  in  Mobeetie,  Texas. 

In  1872  the  congregation  made  out  a  call  for  Mr,  Jacob  L. 
Thompson,  who  had  been  supplying  them  for  some  time.  He  did 
not  accept  the  call,  but  continued  to  supply  the  pulpit  until  July, 
1874,  when  a  second  call  was  presented  him  from  the  congregation 
for  one-half  time,  which  he  accepted  and  was  installed,  July  2,  1874. 
Mr.  Thompson  had  previous  to  this  time  received  and  accepted  a 
call  from  Elderton  church,  and  had  been  ordained  and  installed  for 
one-half  time.  He  served  the  congregation  witli  a  good  degree  of 
acceptance  for  three  years,  when  he  tendered  his  resignation,  and  at 
his  earnest  request.  Presbytery  dissolved  the  pastoral  relation  at  its 
spring  meeting  in  Freeport,  Pa.,  1886.  He  was  dismissed  to  the 
Presbytery  of  Blairsville,  and  accepted  a  call  from  the  church  of 
New  Salem,  whose  pastor  he  continues  to  be. 

The  congregation,  through  its  delegate.  Dr.  R.  McChesney, 
secured  the  services  of  the  writer  for  six  months,  to  begin  the  first 
Sabbath  of  May,  1876.  At  the  end  of  that  time  an  arrangement 
was  made  to  supply  the  church  from  the  seminary  during  the  win- 
ter. In  the  spring  of  1877,  he  accepted  a  unanimous  call  and  was 
installed  pastor  for  one-half  time  the  6th  of  September  following. 
The  pastoral  relation  continues  to  the  present  time  with  satisfaction 


164  HISTORY    OF    THE 


to  pastor  and  people.  The  past  eleven  years  have  been  years  of 
blessing  to  the  congregation.  They  have  been  permitted  to  enjoy 
the  blessing  of  brethren  dwelling  together  in  unity.  One  hundred 
and  seventy-six  have  been  added  to  the  roll  of  communicants.  Many 
of  these  were  children  of  the  church,  showing  that  the  blessmg  of 
the  covenant  made  with  the  parents  still  rests  upon  their  children, 
and  the  fruit  of  the  seed  sown  in  former  years  is  being  gathered  in. 
This  church  during  its  existence  as  an  organized  body,  nearly 
fifty  years,  has  had  six  vacancies,  two  stated  supplies  and  six  pas- 
torates. 

THE    ELDERSHIP. 

Mr.  R.  M.  Walker  and  Mr.  William  Anthony  were  the  first 
ruling  elders  elected.  They  were  ordained  and  installed  July  7, 
1838.  Mr.  Walker  died  July  29,  1847.  Mr.  Anthony  died  May 
12,  1856.  The  second  election  was  held  August  30,  1839,  when 
Alexander  McNutt,  Joseph  Henderson,  James  Speedy  and  James 
Lewis  were  elected.  Mr.  McNutt  died  December  4,  1840.  Mr. 
Henderson  was  dismissed  to  the  Presbyterian  Church  of  Blairsville, 
Pa.,  in  1861.  Mr.  Seedy  died  October  20,  1866,  and  Mr.  Lewis, 
March  20,  1852. 

The  third  election  was  held  August  23,  1847,  when  Mr.  R.  T. 
Robinson  and  Mr.  John  McGara  were  elected.  The  date  of  their 
ordination  and  installation  is  not  recorded.  Mr.  ^McGara  was  dis- 
missed August  17,  1851.  Mr.  Robinson  was  also  dismissed 
August  19,  1854. 

January  4,  1851,  Mr.  Hugh  Miller  and  Mr.  William  McKnight 
were  chosen  ruling  elders.  The  date  of  their  ordination  and 
installation  was  not  recorded.  Mr.  McKnight  was  dismissed  in 
1857.  Mr.  Miller  is  still  a  member  of  the  session,  its  senior  mem- 
ber. 

Robert  McChesney,  M.  D.,  James  L.  Lewis  and  John  Walker 
were  elected  December  19,  1854,  and  were  ordained  and  installed  a 
few  weeks  later.  Mr.  Walker  died  April  4,  1882.  He  was  truly 
a  good  man,  and  highly  esteemed  by  the  congregation,  the  oldest 
member  of  the  Sabbath  School.  Mr.  Lewis  was  dismissed  Feb- 
ruary 4,  1882  to  the  Presbyterian  Church  of  Indiana,  Pa. 

The  sixth  election  was  held  in  1865,  when  Mr.  Joseph  Cribbs 
and  Mr.   Samuel  Fiscus  were  elected.       They  were  ordained  and 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  165 

installed  in  August  following.  Mr.  Cribbs  died  November  6,  1881, 
The  last  election  was  held  May  18,  1880.  William  Fleming, 
Thomas  N.  Fleming,  Michael  Kaufman  and  W,  A.  McChesney, 
M.  D.,  were  elected.  Their  ordination  and  installation  took  place 
June  13,  1880. 

The  present  session  is  composed  of  seven  members,  namely: 
Hugh  Miller,  Robert  McChesney,  M.  D.,  Samuel  Fiscus,  Wm, 
Fleming,  T.  N,  Fleming,  M.  Kaufman  and  W.  A.  McChesney, 
M.  D.  Nineteen  men  have  served  as  ruling  elders  in  this  congre- 
gation. 

TRUSTEES    AND    DEACONS. 

The  financial  interests  of  the  congregation  were  managed  by  a 
committee  of  trustees.  The  first  committee  was  elected  April, 
1839,  and  consisted  of  Reuben  Jewell,  Samuel  Walker,  Samuel 
Bothel  and  David  Anthony.  The  last  named  was  appointed  trea- 
surer. 

After  some  years  the  congregation  elected  a  board  of  deacons, 
to  which  the  finances  of  the  church  were  committed.  The  names 
of  this  board  and  date  of  election  were  not  recorded,  or  the  record 
is  lost. 

The  church  was  incorporated  by  the  Court  of  Common  Pleas 
of  Indiana  county,  December  25,  1857.  We  find  that  some  t  ime 
after  the  charter  was  granted  a  meeting  of  the  deacons  was  called, 
and  at  said  meeting  Dewberry  Thomas  and  A.  T.  Anthony  were 
appointed  President  and  Secretary  respectively,  and  John  Fleming, 
Sr.,  and  Moses  Johnston  were  also  members  of  said  board. 

In  May,  1883,  the  congregation,  by  a  large  majority  vote, 
decided  to  elect  a  board  of  six  trustees  instead  of  deacons,  to  which 
the  financial  interests  of  the  congregation  should  be  entrusted.  Two 
were  elected  for  one  year,  two  for  two  years,  and  two  for  three 
years,  two  retiring  every  year  and  two  being  elected  annually. 
The  present  board  consists  of  R.  M.  Fleming,  Jesse  Thomas,  A. 
A.  Wiggins,  William  Robinson,  James  Allison  and  J.  C.  Walker. 

SABBATH    SCHOOL. 

The  Sabbath  School  began  with  a  Bible  Class,  taught  by  the 
pastor,  Rev.  A.  Donaldson.  The  class  increased  in  numbers  and 
interest  until    it  was  found  necessary  to  organize  a  Sabbath  School 


166  HISTORY    OF    THK 


in,  the  regular  order.  The  first  Sabbath  School  in  all  this  region 
was  organized  in  1829  or  1830,  by  Francis  Fairman,  Jesse  Marlin, 
Tames  Speedy  and  James  Lewis,  at  the  house  of  Francis  Fairman, 
in  Washington  township,  Indiana  county.  Mr.  Fairman  was  super- 
intendent. A  few  years  later  the  school  was  moved  to  a  public 
school  house,  near  James  Speedy's.  Mr.  James  Lewis  was  chosen 
superintendent.  The  school  was  moved  again  to  the  Cribb's  school 
house,  when  James  L.  Lewis  became  superintendent.  This  school 
disbanded  a  few  years  afterwards,  and  the  scholars  nearly  all  went 
to  Currie's  Run,  which,  with  the  Bible  Class,  taught  by  the  pastor, 
formed  the  Currie's  Run  school. 

Mr.  Joseph  Henderson  is  thought  to  have  been  the  first  regu- 
larly elected  superintendent.  He  was  succeeded  by  Mr.  Hugh 
Miller,  and  he  again  by  Mr.  James  L.  Lewis,  who  served  until  the 
spring  of  1875,  when  William  Robinson  was  chosen  his  successor. 
He  served  two  years,  and  was  succeeded  by  William  Fleming.  He 
served  until  the  spring  of  1881,  when  Michael  Kaufman  succeeded 
him,  who  served  as  superintendent  until  May  1,  1887.  William 
Fleming  was  again  elected  by  the  session  as  superintendent,  and, 
with  Thomas  N.  Fleming,  assistant,  who  served  the  school  as 
superintendents  at  this  time.  A  good  number  of  the  young  people 
have  been  brought  into  the  church  through  the  work  of  the 
Sabbath  School,  so  that  it  is  a  very  important  branch  of  our 
church  work. 

MISSIONARY    SOCIETIES. 

A  Woman's  Foreign  Missionary  Society  was  organized  in  1875, 
which  has  been  in  successful  operation  ever  since,  some  years  con- 
tributing over  one  hundred  dollars  to  the  general  fund. 

In  the  summer  of  1886,  a  Home  Missionary  Society  was 
organized  by  the  young  ladies  of  the  congregation,  who  have 
manifested  a  good  degree  of  zeal  in  the  work,  having  sent  already 
over  sixty  dollars  to  the  Presbyterial  Treasurer  for  home  work. 
These  societies  have  been  and  are  a  great  stiTnulus  to  church  work. 
They  have  some  excellent  workers,  who  have  realized  something 
of  the  blessedness  of  aiding  in  the  work  of  Christ's  advancing 
kino-dom. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  167 

CONTRIBUTIONS. 

By  the  aid  of  the  missionary  societies  and  by  changing  from  one 
annual  collection  for  each  board  to  a  collection  every  Sabbath 
when  there  is  preaching,  the  contributions  of  the  church  have 
largely  increased.  In  1886,  the  donations  to  the  different  boards  of 
the  church  amounted  to  four  hundred  dollars,  while  there  was 
•spent  only  five  hundred  and  fifty  dollars  -at  home. 

MEMBERSHIP. 

The  roll  shows  that  thei'e  have  been  seven  hundred  and  forty- 
three  members  enrolled.  One  hundred  and  twelve  of  these  have 
died  while  members  in  communion  with  this  church.  About  four 
hundred  have  been  dismissed  on  certificate.  Six  were  suspended 
and  not  restored.  Twenty-three  left  without  certificates  and  their 
names  have  been  dropped  from  the  roll.  Two  hundred  names  are 
still  on  the  roll  of  membership,  the  largest  number  at  any  one 
time. 

REMARKS. 

This  church  has  two  sons  in  the  Presbyterian  ministry,  namely: 
John  N.  McCoy,  stated  supply  for  the  churches  of  Trenton  and 
Sugar  Creek,  Synod  of  Illinois,  and  Frank  A.  Walker,  pastor  of 
the  Tarentum  Presbyterian  church.  During  the  present  pastorate 
the  meetings  of  the  session  have  all  been  of  the  most  harmonious 
character,  scarcely  ever  a  divided  vote. 

In  erecting  the  house  of  worship  and  organizing  the  church, 
and  in  supporting  the  gospel,  the  parents  were  working  for  their 
children.  Many  of  them  to-day  are  worshiping  in  the  house  their 
fathers  built,  and  are  enjoying  the  blessings  of  Christian  homes, 
which  grew  up  under  the  influences  of  the  gospel  taught  from  this 
pulpit.  Well  may  the  sons  and  daughters  say:  "The  Lord  hath 
done  great  things  for  us,  whereof  we  are  glad." 


168  HISTORY    OF    THE 


EAST  UNION. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY    ELDER    E.    O  NEILL 


TnTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


About  the  year  1835,  Samuel  Lydick  and  Robert  T.  Allison 
gave  about  four  acres  of  land  in  what  is  now  the  village  of  Taylors- 
ville  to  the  Presbyterian  church,  and  upon  this  was  erected  a  log 
church  twenty-five  feet  in  width  and  thirty-five  in  length.  At  this 
time,  however,  the  people  did  not  seek  to  be  organized  into  a  con- 
gregation. 

The  church  was  formally  organized  by  the  Presbytery  of 
Blairsville,  April  29,  1846,  Rev.  John  Caruthers  and  Rev.  John  H. 
Kirkpatrick  being  the  committee.  The  original  members  were 
ten  in  number  as  follows:  Samuel  Lydick  and  Catharine  his 
wife,  Robert  T.  Allison  and  Jane  Allison  his  wife,  Jane  Allison, 
Mary  Nickle,  Samuel  Waddell  and  Martha  his  wife,  Mary  Ann 
Shields,  Eliza  Allison. 

The  old  church  answered  and  was  used  as  a  place  of  worship 
until  1861,  at  which  time  a  much  more  commodious  building  was 
erected,  size  forty  by  forty-four  feet,  at  a  cost  of  about  $l,5(iO. 

Rev.  David  Mills  was  the  first  pastor  of  the  church,  continuing 
until  about  1853.  From  about  this  date  Rev.  John  Caruthers 
served  as  a  stated  supply  until  June  13,  1857.  On  the  23d  of  June, 
1857,  Rev.  John  Rice  was  installed  for  the  fourth  of  his  time,  the 
remainder  being  given  to  Harmony  and  Mechanicsburg.  He  was 
released  from  this  church,  June  18,  1861.  Rev.  S.  P.  Bollman 
then  served  as  a  supply  till  about  the  close  of  1864.  Occasional 
supplies  followed  by  different  ministers  until  June  26,  1867,  when 
Rev.    J.   Logan   Sample   was  installed   for   one-fourth    time,   the 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  169 

remainder  being  given  to  Harmony  and  Ra^ne.  He  was  released 
from  this  church,  October  18,  1869.  For  several  years  following- 
there  were  only  occasional  supplies.  April  8,  1874,  Rev.  A.  T.  Bell 
became  stated  supply  and  continued  until  March,  1879.  During 
the  time  of  his  ministry  God's  presence  seemed  more  visible  than 
ever  before.  In  the  Spring  of  1876  forty-five  persons  were 
admitted  to  the  church  on  profession  of  their  faith.  Since  October 
9,  1879,  Rev.  James  Caldwell  has  been  stated  supply,  preaching 
ever}'  two  weeks. 

Following  is  a  list  of  ruling  elders  with  terms  of  service  so  far 
as  they  can  be  given.  At  the  time  of  organization  Samuel  Lydick 
and  Robert  T.  Allison  were  chosen,  the  former  of  whom  served 
for  a  period  of  twenty  nine  and  a  half  years  and  the  latter  fifteen. 
From  May  29,  1853,  Robert  Barbor  served  for  twenty-two  years, 
and  James  Martin  twelve  years  from  the  same  date.  S.  Lowry, 
Jas.  T.  Shields,  Joseph  Nickle,  James  Waddell,  John  Lowman  and 
Jacob  L.  Lydick  served  each  two  years  from  March  12,  1859. 
From  April  3,  1861,  Thomas  Gibson  served  for  about  seven  years. 
November  28,  1875,  at  a  congregational  meeting  the  rotary  system 
was  adopted  as  it  regards  the  eldership.  All  the  elders  in  oftice 
having  resigned,  a  new  election  was  held  resulting  in  the  choice  of 
James  T.  Shields,  G.  W.  Thomas,  William  Gallagher,  Edward 
O'Neill,  Jacob  L.  Lydick,  who  were  duly  inducted  into  office. 
David  Short  chosen  at  the  same  time  declined  to  serve.  Moses 
Lydick  and  Robert  Barbor  served  three  years  from  December  29, 
1878;  Ezekiel  Barbor,  three  years  from  December  19,  1880;  James 
Nickle,  three  years  from  December  19,  1888,  and  S.  S.  Gibson, 
three  years  from  December  18,  1884.  James  Hadden  was  elected 
in  December,  1885,  and  Bruce  Leasure,  December  18,  1887.  The 
present  session  consists  of  James  T.  Shields,  Edward  O'Neill, 
Jacob  L.  Lydick,  Wm.  Gallagher,  James  Hadden,  Bruce  Leasure. 

The  first  Sabbath  School  was  organized  about  1858  or  1859, 
but  no  records  have  been  regularly  kept.  So  far  as  remembered 
the  following  have  served  as  superintendents,  viz:  Samuel  Lydick, 
Jacob  L.  Lydick,  James  T.  Shields,  William  Gallagher,  Samuel  L. 
Barr  and  Edward  O'Neill,  the  last  named  being  the  present  incum- 
bent. 

The  present  membership  of  the  church  is  ninety -six. 

on  \ 


170  HISTORY    OF    THE 


EBENEZER. 


TTTTTTTTTT'trTTTT 


BY    REV.    D.   J.    IRWIN,    D.    D. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


ORGANIZATION. 


Ebenezer  church  was  oro^anized  about  1790  or  1791,  and,  in 
connection  with  Bethel,  formed  a  pastoral  charge.  To  form  any 
correct  idea  of  the  times  in  which  our  fathers  here  erected  an  altar 
to  God,  and  gathered  around  it  from  time  to  time  to  offer  up  their 
sacrifice,  and  mingle  together  in  scenes  of  devotion  and  praise,  we 
must  take  into  Consideration  their  surroundings.  It  was  but  about 
seven  years  after  the  close  of  our  revolutionary  war,  and  about 
four  years  after  the  adoption  of  the  constitution  of  the  United 
States,  and  in  the  second  year  of  Washington's  first  administration. 
It  was  about  twenty  years  before  a  steamboat  had  been  built,  and 
about  forty  years  before  a  single  mile  of  railroad  track  was  laid  in 
the  United  vStates.  The  territory  included  in  the  bounds  of  the 
congregation  at  that  time  was  very  large.  Many  persons  came 
from  Elder's  Ridge  and  many  others  from  and  beyond  Saltsburg. 
It  is  not  known  by  whom  the  church  was  organized. 

PASTORS    AND    SUPPLIES. 

Rev.  Mr.  Marquis  preached  here  in  1793.  With  this  exception 
there  is  no  account  of  any  regular  preaching  prior  to  the  time  when 
Rev.  Joseph  Henderson  settled  among  the  people  and  became  their 
pastor.  Mr.  Henderson  probably  preached  here  first  in  1797,  and 
in  1799  became  settled  pastor.  He  was  a  native  of  Franklin 
county,  Pa.     He  was  graduated  by  the  College  of  New  Jersey  in 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  171 

1776,  and  was  licensed  by  the  PresHyteiy  of  Donegal,  June  16, 
1779.  He  was  ordained  and  installed  pastor  ot  the  church  of 
Conewago,  June  20,  1781.  On  the  loth  of  April,  1795,  he  asked 
leave  to  resign  his  pastoral  charge  because  the  congregation  failed 
to  meet  their  engagements  in  regard  to  his  salar\',  and  his  request 
was  granted  by  Presbytery, 

Shortly  after  this  he  traveled  westward  as  far  as  Kentucky, 
On  his  return  he  preached  one  or  two  Sabbaths  in  the  bounds  of 
Bethel  and  Ebenezer,  On  the  11th  of  April,  1798,  he  received  a 
dismission  from  the  Presbytery  ot  Carlisle  to  connect  with  that  of 
Redstone,  While  on  his  way  with  his  family  to  the  west  he  was 
urged  by  the  congregations  of  Bethel  and  Ebenezer  to  remain  with 
them,  and  he  consented  to  supply  them  for  a  year.  Before  the 
close  of  the  year  he  consented  to  remain  permanently,  and  on  the 
9th  of  April,  1799,  he  accepted  a  call  from  these  congregations  to 
become  their  pastor,  although  he  never  was  formally  installed. 

Mr,  Henderson  was  truly  in  many  respects  an  extraordinary 
man,  and  was  an  earnest  and  faithful  preacher.  He  was  greatly 
beloved  by  the  congregation,  and  had  the  respect  and  confidence  of 
the  entire  community.  He  was  especially  noted  for  his  prompt- 
ness and  punctuality.  He  was  deeply  interested  in  all  the  mis- 
sionary operations  of  the  church,  and  was  a  zealous  friend  and 
advocate  of  the  cause  of  temperance,  and  both  by  precept  and 
example  inculcated  the  principle  of  total  abstinence  from  intoxi- 
cating drinks.  He  zealously  and  faithfully  served  the  church  for 
more  than  a  quarter  of  a  century,  and  in  1824,  on  account  of 
increasing  age  and  infirmity  he  was  released  from  his  pastoral 
duties,  and  in  patience  and  resignation  he  awaited  the  call  of  the 
Master  to  come  up  higher.  He  was  called  to  rest  September  9, 
1836,  in  the  eighty-fourth  year  of  his  age,  and  now  he  enjoys  the 
reward  of  those  who,  having  turned  many  to  righteousness,  shall 
shine  in  the  firmament  of  heaven.  His  mortal  remains  were  buried 
in  the  graveyard  at  Bethel,  where  his  sleeping  dust,  mingling  with 
that  of  many  of  his  loved  and  loving  parishoners,  awaits  the  resur- 
rection of  the  just. 

Shortly  after  Mr.  Henderson's  release,  Rev,  Jesse  R.  Smith 
became  pastor.  In  many  respects  he  was  pre-eminently  qualified 
for  the  position.  He  was  a  man  of  fine  culture  and  highly 
educated.     He    was  affable   and  courteous,  and  was  a  fluent  and 


172  HISTORY    OF    THE 


eloquent  speaker.  He  unfortunately  fell  a  victim  of  the  snares  of 
the  wine  cup.  After  a  pastorate  of  four  years,  the  congregation, 
while  they  loved  and  respected  him  for  his  many  noble  qualities  of 
head  and  heart,  were  compelled  in  great  sorrow  and  angui>h, 
on  account  of  his  infirmity,  to  ask  a  dissolution  of  the  pastoral 
relation. 

In  1832,  Rev.  David  Lewis  became  pastor.  He  was  born  in 
North  Wales,  October  13,  1786.  He  was  but  eighteen  years  of 
age  when  he  began  to  preach  the  gospel.  After  having  preached 
for  twenty-eight  years  in  England,  he  emigrated  to  America,  and 
for  twelve  years  he  was  pastor  of  this  church,  and  although  he 
died  at  the  age  of  fifty-eiglit,  he  had  been  a  herald  of  salvation  for 
forty  years.  In  the  full  vigor  of  life,  and  apparently  in  the  enjoy- 
ment of  perfect  health,  he  was  suddenly  called,  December  9,  1884, 
to  cease  from  his  labor  on  earth  and  enter  into   the  rest  of  heaven. 

In  less  than  a  year  after  the  death  of  Mr.  Lewis,  Rev.  John 
Cross  became  pastor.  He  was  a  good  scholar,  a  fine  theologian, 
and  an  humble,  devoted  Christian.  While  all  acknowledged  him 
to  be  an  earnest,  loving  Christian  brother,  objections  were  urged 
against  by  him  some,  that  owing  to  certain  peculiarities  of  disposi- 
tion and  in  his  manner  of  preaching,  his  ministrations  were  not 
profitable.  Feelings  of  dissatisfaction  having  manifested  themselves, 
the  pastoral  relation  was  dissolved  in  1850.  Shortly  after  he 
settled  at  Middletown,  Franklin  county,  Fa.,  and  there  for  a  short 
time  labored  iu  the  Master's  cause  with  very  encouraging  success, 
but  at  the  call  of  the  Master  he  ceased  from  the  labor  and  toil  of 
earth,  to  enter  upon  the  enjoyment  of  his  reward  in  the  mansions 
of  glory. 

In  1851  Rev.  G  orge  Morton  became  pastor,  and  in  1854,  at 
his  own  request,  he  was  released.  In  1855  he  was  a  second  time 
settled  as  pastor,  and  again,  at  his  own  request,  he  was  dismissed  in 
1859.  Under  his  ministration  the  congregation  enjoyed  a  good 
degree  of  prosperity. 

Part  of  the  following  summer  the  pulpit  was  supplied  by  Mr. 
Geo.  P.  Ha\s  (now  Dr.  Hays,  of  Cincinnati,)  a  studen  of  the 
Western  Theological  Seminary.  The  church  remained  vacant  for 
about  two  years,  the  pulpit  being  supplied  by  students  from  the 
Seminary  and  otliers  during  that  time. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNUSTG.  173 

On  the  11th  of  April,  ]861,  Mr.  D.  J.  Irwin,  a  student  of  the 
Western  Theological  Seminary,  received  a  call  from  this  church, 
and,  June  17,  1861,  was  ordained  and  installed  pastor  by  the  Pres- 
bytery ot  Saltsburg,  where,  by  the  grace  of  God,  he  continues 
until  the  present,  striving  to  do  the  work  of  an  evangelist,  and  to 
make  full  proof  of  his  ministry. 

HOUSES    OF    WORSHIP. 

The  first  place  of  preaching  was  a  tent  constructed  of  rough 
boards,  and  was  only  used  on  wet  or  stormy  days.  On  pleasant 
days  the  preaching  was  in  the  surrounding  grove.  The  first  house 
of  worship  was  about  twenty-five  feet  square,  and  was  built  of 
hewed  logs.  Th€  seats  were  made  of  split  logs.  There  never  was 
a  fire  place  or  a  stove  in  this  house. 

The  second  house  was  also  built  of  hewed  logs,  and  was  about 
fifty  feet  long  and  about  thirty  feet  wide.  For  a  considerable  time 
the  congregation  worshiped  in  this  house,  with  nothing  but  loose 
boards  for  a  floor;  and  for  several  winters  they  had  neither  stoves 
nor  fire  place. 

The  next  building  was  a  beautiful  and  substantial  brick 
structure,  sixty-five  by  forty-five  feet,  with  vestibule,  session  room 
and  gallery,  and  a  very  commodious  and  well-arranged  audience 
room. 

In  1870  the  congregation  decided  to  erect  a  new  church  build- 
ing, which  is  the  present  house  of  worship.  It  is  the  fourth 
church  building  erected  by  the  congregation,  or  the  fifth  place  of 
worship  including  the  tent  first  erected.  It  is  a  two-story  building, 
sixty-eight  feet  long  and  forty-eight  feet  wide,  with  vestibule  and 
three  rooms  below,  and  audience  room  and  gallery  above,  and  in 
regard  to  comfort  and  convenience  is  surpassed  by  few  country 
churches. 

For  nearly  a  year  the  congregation  worshiped  in  the  basement, 
and  on  the  17th  of  October,  1871,  the  building  being  entirely  com- 
pleted was  formally  dedicated  to  the  worship  of  Almighty  God, 
and  soon  the  glory  of  the  Lord  filled  the  house  and  a  precious 
season  of  revival  was  employed  during  the  following  winter  and 
spring. 


174  HISTORY    OF    THE 


ELDERS. 

The  first  elders  were  Patrick  Jack,  S.  Coulter,  John  Mar- 
shall and  John  Robinson.  Since  then  there  have  been  the  follow- 
ing additional  elders:  James  Marshall,  James  (!^oulter,  John  Doug- 
lass, John  Ewing,  Samuel  Marshall,  William  Leard,  John  G. 
Thompson,  James  Fulton,  William  Conney,  William  Moore,  John 
Barkley,  John  Miller,  Robert  Ewing,  Tobias  Bricker,  Samuel  G. 
Miller,  John  McCurdy,  William  Wray,  Francis  Harbison,  James 
Jack,  Robert  Wray,  R.  E.  Leard,  S.  P.  Marshall,  James  M. 
Barkley,  David  Stiffy,  Samuel  Nesbit  and  M.  K.  Leard. 

The  following  persons  compose  the  present  session:  Francis 
Harbison,  James  Jack,  David  Stiffy,  R.  E.  Leard,  Samuel  Nesbit 
and  M.  K.  Leard. 

SABBATH    SCHOOL. 

The  Sabbath  School  was  organized  in  1820,  and  for  a  long 
time  was  managed  by  Mr.  James  Coulter  and  Mr.  Robert  Ewing, 
without  any  formal  organization  from  ^ear  to  year.  At  the  death 
of  Mr.  Coulter  the  Sabbath  School  was  suspended  for  some  time. 
About  1830,  it  was  again  formally  organized  by  the  appointment 
of  Mr.  John  Barkley  as  superintendent.  For  a  considerable 
length  of  time  the  session  seems  to  have  had  entire  control  of  the 
Sabbath  School,  as  the  minutes  show  that  they  appointed  both 
superintendents  and  teachers. 

In  1840,  Mr.  John  Montgomery,  a  member  of  the  church, 
bequeathed  $75  to  Ebenezer  Sabbath  School.  With  this  money  a 
library  was  purchased,  probably  the  first  the  school  ever  had. 

The  following  persons  have  been  superintendents  of  the  school: 
James  Coulter,  Robert  Ewing,  John  Barkley,  R.  E.  Leard,  David 
Stifly,  J.  M.  Barkley,  Samuel  Nesbit. 

PRAYER-MEETING,     ETC. 

It  is  not  known  at  what  time  a  weekly  prayer-meeting  was 
established,  but  quite  early  in  the  history  of  the  church  there  was 
a  monthly  concert  for  prayer  with  special  reference  to  the  mission 
work  of  the  church,  and  at  stated  times  they  were  in  the  habit  of 
taking  up  collections  to  sustain  the  various  benevolent  enterprises 
of  the  church.     Ladies'  missionary  societies  were  also  formed,  and 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  175 

for  a  considerable  time  their  efforts  were  chiefly  directed  to  the  work 
of  Foreign  Missions.  In  later  years  these  societies  have  devoted 
their  energies  to  the  special  department  of  Christian  work, 
*' Woman's  Work  for  Woman."  The  ladies  have  also  done  a 
good  work  in  the  cause  of  temperance. 

From  the  Sabbath  School  arjd  congregation  the  following  min- 
isters have  gone  forth  to  proclaim  the  gospel  of  Christ:  J.  H.  Nes- 
bitt,  T.  D.  Ewing,  T.  A.  McCurdy,  T.  R,  Ewing,  S.  M.  Davis, 
N.  H.Miller,  and  E.  P.  Lewis,  and  others  are  in  course  of  prepara- 
tion for  the  ministry. 

There  are  now  several  Presbyterian  churches  in  the  territory 
formerly  occupied  by  this  alone.  In  later  years  the  congregation 
has  been  much  weakened  by  deaths  and  removals.  The  present 
membership  is  160.  Rejoicing  in  the  truth  that  the  God  of  the 
fathers  is  the  God  of  the  children,  they  still  keep  the  banner  of  the 
covenant  unfurled.  With  a  commendable  degree  of  Christian 
activity  they  are  striving  faithfully  to  do  the  work  of  the  Lord 
committed  to  them. 


176  HTSTORY    OF    THE 


ELDER'S    RIDGE. 


BY    REV.    A.    DONALDSON,    D.    D. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


Motto: — "  That  which  we  have  heard  and  known  and  our  fathers  have 
told  us  we  will  not  hide  from  their  children,  showing  to  the  generation  to- 
come  the  praises  of  the  Lord." 

1.    ORGANIZATION. 

At  Congruity,  June  5,  1830,  to  the  Presbytery  of  Redstone  was 
presented  a  memorial  from  certain  inhabitants  of  Conemaugh  (now- 
Young)  township,  Indiana  county,  praying  to  be  formed  into  a 
congregation,  to  be  called  Eldersridge.  The  request  was  granted, 
and  Rev,  Thomas  Davis  was  appointed  to  fulfill  it.  This  he  did 
on  the  30th  of  August,  1830,  and  reported  it  to  the  Presbytery  of 
Blairsville  at  its  first  meeting  in  the  autumn  of  that  3'ear.  For  in 
the  mean  time  it  had  been  organized,  including  this  region.  Fifty 
persons  were  embraced  in  the  new  congregation  whose  names  fol- 
low: James  Smith,  Esq.,  Mary  Anne  Smith,  John  Smith,  Jane 
Smith,  Margaret  Smith,  Jacob  Weamer,  Barbara  Weamer,  David 
Elder,  Julia  Anne  Elder,  James  Elder,  John  Elder,  Elizabeth 
Elder,  Mary  Elder,  Robert  Elder,  Joseph  Harbison,  Esq., 
Rebekah  Harbison,  Sally  Harbison,  Joseph  Cunningham,  Archi- 
bald McMeans,  Elizabeth  McMeans,  Andrew  McMeans,  William 
McMeans,  Robert  McMeans,  Mary  Devers,  Margaret  McMeans, 
Sarah  McMeans,  Samuel  Cochran,  Nancy  Cochran,  John  Reed, 
Sr.,  Jane  Reed,  Sr.,  Alexander  Reed,  Lucy  Reed,  John  Reed,  Jr., 
Tane  Reed,  Jr.,  Abel  Findlay,  Eliza  Findlay,  Catharine  Harbison, 
Matthew  Harbison,    Anne  Harbison,  Margaret    Patterson,  Joseph 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  17"^ 


PrUterson,  Hannah  McComb,  Sr.,  Hannah  McComb,  Jr.,  Chas. 
McComb,  Mary  McComb,  William  McComb,  James  McComb, 
David  McComb,  Robert  Wray  and  Abigail  Wra}-,  all  previous 
members  of  Bethel,  Ebenezer  or  Saltsburg.  Onlv  three  of  these 
— Robert  Elder,  Margaret  McMeans  and  Sarah  JylcMeans  are 
alive  at  this  present  writing.  Of  these,  Joseph  Harbison,  Esq.  and 
David  McComb  were  elected  as  elders,  but  as  the  father  of  the  lat- 
ter lay  in  his  coffin  that  day,  the  ordination  was  deferred  and 
effected  in  December  following  by  the  same  minister. 

2.    CHURCH    GROUNDS. 

Grounds  for  church  purposes  were  donated.  James  Smith,  Esq., 
gave  one  acre  off  the  corner  of  his  farm  in  the  form  of  a  rhombus, 
Charles  McComb  one-half  acre  in  the  form  of  a  rhomboid,  Allen 
McComb  one  acre  and  a  half  in  the  form  of  a  diamond,  all  corner- 
ing at  the  same  point,  and  bounded  by  lines  parallel  to  those  of  each 
man's  farm.  Esq.  Smith's  portion  was  used  mainly  for  buildings 
and  approaches  to  them;  Allen  McComb's  for  hitching  ground,  and 
Charles  McComb's  for  cemetery  purposes.  About  1850  the  con- 
gregation sold  to  its  pastor  one-third  of  an  acre  from  the  diamond, 
disfiguring  his  land. 

3.    BUILDINGS. 

Before  the  organization,  in  the  fall  of  1829,  the  original  log  build- 
ing 86  by  24  feet,  with  a  widening  of  5  feet  at  the  midiileto  connect 
the  central  with  the  end  logs  was  erected.  It  was  located  near  the 
south  end  of  Esq.  Smith's  lot,  and  cost  about  $300.  In  the  fall  of 
1845  it  had  become  dilapidated,  and  a  brick  building  50  by  40  feet 
was  erected  ten  feet  from  the  north  end  of  the  former,  at  a  cost  of 
about  $1,600.  Daniel  Wilson  and  Samuel  M.  Taylor  were  the 
contractors.  The  Associate  Refoimed  Church  of  Olivet,  was 
kindly  given  in  the  meantime  for  the  worship  of  this  congregation. 
Neither  the  log  house  nor  this  one  was  formally  dtdicated.  In  con- 
sequence of  deficiencies  in  it  this  house  was  taken  down  May  10, 
1878. 

A  third  house  of  two  stories,  70  by  40  feet,  was  built  ten  feet 
north  and  six  feet  west  of  the  former,  on  land  donated  by  Robert 
Elder.  It  was  neatly  frescoed  and  had  narrow  windows  of  stained 
glass,  and  cost  $8,000  and  the  material  of  the  former  house.     John 

23 


178  HISTORY    OF    THE 


Oliver,  Esq.,  of  Mt.  Lebanon,  was  the  contractor.  This  house  was 
dedicated  free  of  debt  November  20,  1879.  The  sermon  was 
preached  by  Rev.  D.  H.  Sloan,  of  Leechburtr,  and  the  prayer 
offered  by  the  pastor.  Meanwhile  the  congregation  had  wor- 
shiped in  Eldersridge  Academy.  It  is  worthy  of  note  that  John 
Smith,  one  of  the  original  members,  was  on  the  building  committee 
of  all  three  churches. 

4.    THE    PASTOR. 

The  congregation  had  only  occasional  supplies  for  the  first  four 
years.  Then  it  obtained  Rev.  David  Kirkpatrick,  of  Westmore- 
land county,  for  one-half  time  as  stated  supply.  He  served  it  in 
that  capacity  for  three  and  a  half  years.  Then  being  called  to 
Poke  Run  for  full  time,  he  announced  his  withdrawal  from  this 
congregation,  April  4,  1838.  On  that  day,  by  the  Presbytery  of 
Blairsville  in  session  at  Saltsburg,  Alexander  Donaldson  was 
licensed  to  preach  the  gospel,  and  persuaded  by  elder  McComb  to 
till  on  the  succeeding  Sabbath  the  pulpit,  made  vacant  by  Mr. 
Kirkpatrick.  Thishe  did  on  the  8th  of  April,  1838.  Then  while 
completing  his  course  in  the  Western  Theological  Seminary,  he 
supplied  this  congregation  and  Currie's  Run,  and,  for  six  months 
additional,  Apollo,  with  these  two  congregations,  each  for  one-third 
of  his  time.  Then  on  a  joint  call  he  was  settled  as  pastor  in 
Eldersridge  and  Currie's  Run,  each  enjoying  half  his  time,  and 
paying  him  a  salary  of  $250.  He  was  ordained  and  installed  at 
Eldersridge,  June  20,  1839.  Rev.  David  Lewis  preached  the  ser- 
mon, Rev.  Robert  Johnson  offered  the  prayer  and  charged  the 
pastor  and  Rev.  Samuel  McFarren  charged  the  people.  This  rela- 
tion continued  without  change  till  the  spring  of  1853.  Then,  owing 
to  the  general  belief  that  the  charge  was  too  extensive,  Currie's 
Run  was  demitted,  and  Eldersridge  congregation  so  divided  as  to 
set  off  about  one-third  of  it  as  a  separate  congregation  at  the 
village  of  West  Lebanon.  New  calls  were  given  with  the  same 
salary,  two-thirds  of  it  to  be  paid  by  Eldersridge  and  one-third  by 
West  Lebanon,  and  the  time  to  be  divided  in  the  same  manner.  In 
the  spring  of  1855,  the  salary  was  raised  to  $600,  and  paid  in  the 
former  proportion.  During  the  civil  war,  by  donations  and  other- 
wise, it  was  made  about  $750,  and  in  the  spring  of  1867,  by  an 
appendix  to  the  calls  it  was   made  $1,000,  and   has  continued  so  till 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING,  179 

the  present  time,  each  congregation  paying  in  the  usual  proportion. 
For  four  years  two  Sabbaths  were  given  at  the  Ridge  and  one  at 
Lebanon.  For  the  next  year  two  sermons  each  Sabbath  were 
given  at  the  Ridge  and  one  at  Lebanon,  and  that  oixler  was  reversed 
every  third  Sabbath.  For  the  last  thirty  years  the  forenoon  of 
each  Sabbath  has  been  given  to  Eldersridge  and  the  afternoon  to 
West  Lebanon,  but  the  old  proportion  of  salary  is  still  continued. 
In  1840,  Boiling  Spring  church  was  organized,  taking  more 
than  half  its  members  from  Eldersridge.  In  1858,  West  Lebanon 
was  wholly  taken  from  it,  and  in  1857  the  organization  at  Clarks- 
burg took  more  than  half  its  memberb  from  this  one.  In  the 
charge,  thus  diminished,  the  only  pastor  still  continues,  expecting  to 
resign  next  spring,  when  fifty  }'ears  of  service  will  be  complete.* 
To  him  it  has  been  a  "  goodly  heritage,"  for  which  devout  thanks 
are  due  to  God. 

5.    THE    ELDERSHIP. 

Of  the  original  elders  Joseph  Harbison,  Esq.,  having  acted  as 
clerk  of  the  session  for  fifteen  years,  and  represented  Blairsville 
Presbytery  in  the  General  Assembly  of  1835,  was  set  off  to  West 
Lebanon  in  1853,  and  David  McComb  died  in  the  year  1872.  Jos. 
Henderson  was  ordained  and  installed  in  1835  and  dismissed  to 
Currie's  Run,  April,  1839.  William  L.  Cunning  from  Ebenezer 
was  installed  in  the  spring  of  1838,  and  in  1840  withdrew  to  the 
Associate  Church  without  asking  a  certificate.  April  20, 1841,  Jas. 
Elder,  John  Wherry  and  Joseph  A.  Henderson  were  ordained  and 
installed.  Mr.  Elder  having  been  clerk  of  the  session  from  1856 
till  1874,  and  represented  his  Presbytery  at  Baltimore  in  the  Gen- 
eral Assembly,  died  February  5,  1877.  Mr.  Wherry  had  held  the 
same  office  from  1845  till  1856,  beginning  our  second  book  of 
records,  when  he  was  dismissed  to  West  Lebanon.  Mr,  Hender- 
son was  dismissed  to  Indiana  on  the  same  da}'.  Samuel  M.  Taylor 
and  David  Wilson  were  ordained  and  installed,  April  9,  1858.  Mr. 
Taylor  was  dismissed  to  the  Sixth  Church,  Pittsburgh,  in  1857,  and 
Mr.  Wilson  to  the  church  of  Bethel,  April,  1867.  John  Thom, 
Esq.,  trom  New  Rehoboth,  Clarion  Presbytery,  was  installed  June 

*The  resignation  was  oflered  in  the  Presbytery  at  Eldersridg-e,  April  11,  1888,  but  the  con- 
iJrea:ations  declared  their  un\villino;ncss  to  accept  it,  and  the  pastoral  relation  was  continued. 
-Ed. 


180  HISTORY    OK    THE 


5,  1855,  and  died  August  28,  1802.  Samuel  Kennedy,  Esq.,  from 
Johnstown  was  installed  and  Samuel  Thompson  ordained  and 
installed  December  12,  1856.  Esq.  Kennedy  was  dismissed  to 
Freeport  in  October,  1861,  and  Mr.  Thompson  to  Boiling  Spring 
in  1866.  William  Fritz  and  Samuel  V  rtue,  M.  D.,  were  ordained 
and  installed  February  25,  1805.  Dr.  Virtue  was  dismissed  to 
West  Lebanon,  April,  1866.  Mr.  Fritz  -till  remains  in  office  with 
us.  Labana  Townsend  from  Iioiling  Spring  was  installed  in  the 
spring  of  1865,  and  dismissed  to  Apollo,  April  12,  1868.  Simon 
P.  Townsend,  Alexander  McComb  and  John  Orr,  Esq.,  from 
Freeport  in  1867,  were  ordained  and  installed,  except  the  latter, 
who  was  only  installed.  Mr.  Townsend  having  represented  his 
Presbytery  in  the  General  Assembly  at  Saratoga,  holds  the  office 
yet.  In  1880,  by  consent  of  the  session,  Mr.  McComb  ceased  to 
act.  Esq.  Orr  in  1869  was  dismissed  to  Delmont.  S.  J.  Craig- 
head, David  Findlay  and  John  Smith  was  chosen  to  office,  February 
24,  1870,  anil  the  first  two  ordained  and  installed  April  3,  and  the 
last  September  16,  of  that  year.  Mr.  Craighead  in  1874  was  elected 
clerk  of  the  session  and  began  our  third  book  of  records,  and  held 
that  office  nine  years,  representing  his  Presbytery  at  Brooklyn  in 
the  General  Assembly  of  1876,  and  is  still  in  the  eldership,  David 
Findlay  died  June  15,  1888,  John  Smith  died  February  21,  1882. 
James  A.  McAdoo,  T.  B.  Elder  and  A.  D.  McComb  were  ordained 
and  installed  September  8,  1882.  The  first  two  are  in  office  with 
us  yet,  and  Prof.  Elder  has  been  clerk  of  the  session  since  May  26, 
1883.  Mr.  McComb  was  dismissed  to  Beatrice,  February  11,  1885. 
So  the  present  session  consists  of  William  Fritz,  S.  P.  Townsend, 
S.  J.  Craighead,  James  A.  McAdoo  and  T.  B.  Elder  with  the 
pastor. 

6.    THE    DEACONS. 

In  this  congregation  the  office  was  so  unpopular  at  first  that  no 
one  would  accept  it,  and  the  financial  interests  were  managed  by  a 
boanl  of  trustees  annually  elected.  But  in  the  year  1859,  when  the 
pastor's  salary  had  always  been  far  in  arrears,  a  resort  was  made  to 
the  deaconry.  William  Fritz,  William  H.  Wray,  John  A.  Ewing, 
S.  P.  Townsend  and  Robert  Reeves  were  ordained  and  installed  in 
that  office.  Immediately  they  addresacd  themselves  to  the  work, 
raised  the  subscription  to   the  amount  required,  and  paid  the  pastor 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  181 

~l ^ ^ ^ 

in  full.  But  soon  Mr.  Wray  moved  from  the  congregation,  Mr. 
Townsend  went  as  captain  to  the  civil  war;  Mr.  Reeves  was  absent 
at  his  trade.  The  burden  was  too  heavy  for  the  other  two.  At- 
tempts were  twice  made  to  secure  assistance  for  them,  but  no  one 
would  accept  the  office.  So  in  1863  the  congregation,  under  com- 
pulsion, relinquished  the  office  and  fell  back  to  the  trustees  again  as 
its  agents.     These  are  efficient  now  and  still  in  power. 

7.    SABBATH     SCHOOLS. 

During  the  first  six  years  of  the  pastorate  a  Bible  Class  was 
taught  by  the  pastor  in  each  bianch  of  the  charge,  to  prepare 
teachers,  and  in  1844  a  school  was  commenced  with  about  fifty 
pupils,  mostly  young,  and  six  teachers,  mostly  females.  For  twenty- 
five  years  the  school  was  open  only  in  the  summer  season.  Then, 
with  reluctance  on  the  part  of  some,  a  winter  school  was  tried,  and 
with  the  consent  of  all  has  been  kept  up  until  now.  Old  people  as 
well  as  young  attend  it.  The  school  now  numbers  175,  with  four- 
teen teachers,  and  the  attendance  is  encouraging.  No  record  of 
superintendents  has  been  kept,  but  the  following  persons  are  remem- 
bered to  have  held  the  office:  David  Elder,  John  M.  Barnett,  John 
M.  McElroy,  John  C.  Thom,  James  Elder,  James  E,  Caruthers, 
John  Thom,  Esq.,  Samuel  Kennedy,  Esq.,  William  H.  Wray, 
Labana  Townsend,  Samuel  Guthrie,  S.  J.  Craighead,  William 
Fritz  and  R.  Y.  Elder,  the  present  incumbent.  Some  mission 
schools  have  also  been  kept  up  for  a  few  summers  which  need  not 
be  described. 

8.    THE    PRAYER    MEETING. 

The  first  eight  years  only  a  monthly  concert  was  observed  on 
the  first  Sabbath  of  each  month.  In  1846,  when  students  were 
increasing,  they,  with  the  pastor  in  his  cabin  study,  maintained  a 
weekly  meeting.  This  in  the  spring  of  1850  was  open  to  the 
public.  Immediately  reviving  influences  became  apparent,  spread 
over  the  congregation,  and  with  few  interruptions  continued  for 
twelve  years.  During  this  happy  time  large  numbers  of  students 
joined  the  church,  and  prepared  for  the  ministry.  The  influence 
also  was  felt  in  our  families.  Again  in  1872,  large  additions  were 
made  to  the  membership  and  zeal  of  the  church.  At  such  times 
the  attendance  on  the  prayer  meeting  was  cheering,  but  in  time  of 


182  HISTORY    OF    TJTE 


coldness  it  dwindled  sadly,  and  few  would  lead  in  prayer,  occa- 
sionally indeed  not  one  but  the  pastor.  Still  as  an  almost  universal 
occurrence  one  true  heart  held  up  his  hands  and  God's  promise 
could  be  plead,  and  some,  at  least,  felt  it  good  to  be  there. 

9.    GENERAL     REMARKS. 

The  congregation,  when  organized,  for  four  years  used  the- 
common  psalmody  of  the  denomination  with  but  little  opposition. 
The  stated  supply  preferred  the  Scotch  version  of  the  psalms,  and 
to  please  him  the  congregation  consented  to  use  it  for  the  time. 
When  the  pastor  came,  many  wished  to  restore  the  psalmody  but 
most  thought  proper  to  defer  it  still  further,  and  this  was  done  tor- 
fifteen  years,  and  when  the  change  was  made  in  1853,  twelve 
families  went  to  other  congregations.  Precentors  lined  out  each 
couplet  before  singing.  But  this  ceased  in  two  years.  Tokens 
were  given  in  advance  to  communicants  and  appropriate  tables  with 
seats  in  the  aisles  were  used.  This  custom  too  was  given  up  about 
I860,  and  the  elements  of  the  Lord's  Supper  have  since  been  given 
to  communicants  in  the  middle  block  of  pews,  and  sister  denomina- 
tions more  specifically  invited  to  commune  with  us,  and  many  ot 
them  do  it. 

10.    ELDERSRIDGE    ACADEMY. 

At  the  ordination  of  the  pastor,  the  Presbytery  arranged  for  st 
young  man,  looking  to  the  ministry,  to  recite  privately  to  him.  He 
soon  brought  another,  and  in  the  following  spring  three  or  four 
came  for  the  same  purpose.  So  they  kept  coming  in  growing 
numbers  for  nearly  eight  years,  amounting  to  about  a  dozen.  Then 
by  the  earnest  advice  of  many  influential  persous  Eldersridge 
Academy  was  formally  opened  with  sixteen  students,  April  16, 
1847,  and  the  assistance  of  Mr.  John  M.  Barnett.  The  pastor's 
log  cabin  study  was  used  for  the  first  quarter.  Then  a  frame 
building  like  a  common  school  house  was  erected  for  the  purpose, 
at  a  cost  of  about  $300.  In  1850  the  two-story  building,  since 
used,  costing  $2,020  took  its  place.  But  as  interest  accrued  on  most 
of  this  during  twenty -two  years,  the  cost  was  nearly  double,  and 
when  the  whole  was  paid  off  in  1872,  the  entire  expense  was  about 
$4,000.  This  fell  upon  the  pastor  as  founder  of  the  institution,  and 
became  a  contribution  from  him  to  the  cause  of  education.       Over 


J  PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  183 

2,500  students  have  enjoyed  its  privileges.  About  90  have 
studied  medicine,  and  nearly  an  equal  number  have  been  admitted 
to  the  bar,  and  six  of  these  have  signally  adorned  the  bench.  In 
1876,  the  institution  w^as  given  to  a  board  of  self-perpetuating 
trustees,  under  v^^hom  he  continued  to  act  as  principal.  In  1884  he 
asked  to  be  released,  which  was  not  done  till  a  year  afterwards. 
Thus  the  whole  time  of  his  daily  teaching  and  acting  as  principal 
was  thirty-eight  years  and  three  months.  Prof.  T.  B.  Elder,  A. 
M.,  who  had  held  the  mathematical  chair  for  more  than  twenty 
years  was  elected  principal  in  his  stead,* 

11.    ECCLESIASTICAL     CONNECTIONS. 

This  congregation  has  been  connected  with  three  Presbyteries, 
The  authority  for  its  organization  was  an  order  from  "  Old  Red- 
stone." For  twenty-six  years  it  was  under  the  jurisdiction  of 
Blairsville,  in  which  time  its  pastor  was  installed  on  two  difFei'ent 
occasions,  and  when  in  1856  the  portions  of  Armstrong  and 
Indiana  counties  lying  between  the  Allegheny  River,  Mahoning 
and  Blacklick  Creeks,  with  th-e  Conemaugh  River,  were  organized 
into  a  separate  Presbytery,  this  congregation  was  included  in  it. 
The  new  organization  was  first  called  Saltsburg,  because  that 
village  sustained  about  the  same  relation  to  it  as  Blairsville  to  the 
old  one,  and  suggested  the  line  of  division  between  them.  But 
after  the  union  of  the  Old  and  New  School  Churches  in  1870,  the 
whole  of  Armstrong  county,  with  all  of  Indiana  north  of  the 
Blacklick  was  included  in  our  Presbytery,  and  it  was  called  Kittan- 
ing.  At  the  same  time  we,  who  had  previously  been  amenable  to 
the  Synod  of  Pittsburg,  were  set  over  to  that  of  Erie,  and  when  in 
1880  Synods  were  bounded  by  state  lines,  we  naturally  became 
responsible  to  the  Synod  of  Pennsylvania,  and  thus  we  have  been 
included  in  three  Synods  also. 

Other  pastoral  work  will  be  recorded  with  the  history  of  West 
Lebanon. 

*  A  more  extended  history  of  this  school  will  be  found  in  a  subsequent  paper. — Ed. 


184  -  HISTORY    OF    THE 


ELDERTON. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY    REV.    LYCURGUS    MECHLIN. 


ORGANIZATION. 

This  church  was  organized  August  18,  1885,  by  a  committee  or 
Blairsville  Presbytery,  consisting  ot  Rev.  John  Stark,  Rev.  A.  Don- 
aldson, D.  D.,  and  Rev,  Frankhn  Orr.  There  were  sixteen  original 
members  as  follows:  Robert  Woodward,  Mrs.  E,  Woodward, 
Mrs.  M.  A.  Klingenberger,  Mrs.  E.  Rosborough,  Mrs.  Caroline 
Martin,  Mrs,  Mary  Shannon,  Mrs.  Elizabeth  Thomas,  Mrs, 
Rebecca  Robinson,  Mrs.  Polly  Woodward,  R.  M.  Gibson,  Charles- 
Rosborough,  Robert  Martin,  John  Shannon,  Joseph  Thomas, 
Robert  Cochran,  R.  T.  Robinson,  Sarah  Smith.  R.  M.  Gibson, 
P  obert  Martin  and  John  Shannon  were  elected  ruling  elders.  R, 
M.  Gibson  declined  to  serve;  the  other  two  accepted  and  were 
ordained  and  installed  next  day. 

CHURCH    BUILDINGS. 

The  first  lot  of  ground  was  owned  in  partnership  with  the 
Associate  congregation  of  Elderton.  By  a  joint  committee  from 
each  congregation,  consisting  of  Messrs.  Hugh  Elgin,  Wm.  Lytle 
and  Thomas  Armstrong,  of  the  Associate  congregation,  and  Hon. 
Robert  Woodward  and  Robert  Martin  from  the  Presbyterian 
church,  a  brick  church  was  erected  upon  said  iot,  called  "  The 
Union  Church  of  Elderton."  In  this  church  both  congregations 
worshiped  until  1862.  The  building  be'-ame  defective  and  was 
taken  down.     Then  each  congregation  considering  it  to  be  to  their 


J 

PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  185 

advantage  to  build  separate  houses,  did  so  in  1863,  the  United 
Presbyterians  taking  the  old  church  and  building  on  the  old 
foundation,  and  the  Presbyterians  building  on  an  adjoining  lot 
bought  by  both  congregations, 

Mr.  J,  P.  Leach  was  the  contractor,  and  the  church  was  finished 
in  1863.  It  is  a  substantial  frame  building,  forty-five  by  fifty  feet, 
with  a  ceiling  sixteen  feet  high,  costing  $2,200,  and  seating  two 
hundred  and  fifty  to  three  hundred.  In  the  summer  of  1886  the 
congregation  added  a  vestibule  of  eight  feet  in  width,  with  a  room 
on  each  end.  A  new  roof  was  placed  on  the  whole  building,  and 
the  inside  was  papered  throughout,  costing  about  $700. 

PASTORS    AND    SUPPLIES. 

Rev.  William  F.  Morgan  preached  his  first  sermon  in  the  old 
brick  church,  second  Sabbath  of  June,  1855.  He  supplied  the  con- 
gregation regularly,  one-third  time,  until  the  3d  of  September, 
same  year.  Then  he  was  chosen  pastor,  and  February  1,  1856,  he 
was  installed  for  one-third  time.  Rural  Valley  taking  the  other 
two-thirds.  The  pastoral  relation  continued  until  the  twenty-fifth 
of  June,  1873,  when  he  tendered  his  resignation  which  was 
accepted.  One  year  and  ten  months  later  God  released  him  from 
all  earthly  pastoral  care  of  his  church  militant  and  called  himi  up  to 
his  church  triumphant.  He  died  at  his  home  in  Rural  Valley, 
Pa.,  Sabbath,  April  25,  1875.  Brother  Morgan  was  a  faithful 
pastor,  a  kind-hearted  and  sympathetic  man.  He  carefully  obeyed 
the  apostle's  command,  "  Follow  after  the  things  which  make  for 
peace,  and  things  wherewith  one  maj^  edify  another."  For  a 
sketch  of  his  life  see  history  of  Rural  Valley  church. 

Mr.  Jacob  L,  Thompson  was  chosen  pastor,  October  13,  1873, 
and  ordained  and  installed,  January  20,  1874,  for  one-half  time, 
giving  Currie's  Run  the  other  half.  In  the  ordination  and  installa- 
tion services.  Rev.  A.  Donaldson,  D,  D.,  preached  the  sermon 
from  I.  Cor.  1:  21,  Rev.  D.  J.  Irwin,  D.  D.,  presided,  proposed 
the  constitutional  questions  and  offered  the  ordaining  prayer,  and 
also  delivered  the  charge  to  the  people,  and  Rev.  T.  D.  Ewmg 
gave  the  charge  to  the  pastor.  The  relation  c®ntinued  until  April, 
1876,  when  it  was  dissolved  at  his  earnest  request.  He  was  dis- 
missed to  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville,  and  accepted  a  call  from 
the  congregation  of  New  Salem,  and  continues  their  pastor. 

24 


18(5  HISTORY    OF    TJIE 


Mr.  Lycurgus  Mechlin,  a  licentiate,  supplied  the  congregation 
from  May  1,  1876,  to  May  1,  1877.  Then  he  accepted  their  call 
for  one-half  time.  At  an  adjourned  meeting  of  Presbytery  in 
Elderton,  June  29,  1877,  he  was  ordained  and  installed.  Rev.  T. 
D.  Ewing,  D.  D.,  presided,  preached  the  sermon  from  I.  Tim.  1: 
15,  proposed  the  constitutional  questions  and  offered  the  ordaining 
prayer.  Rev.  D.  J.  Irwin,  D.  D.,  delivered  the  charge  to  the 
pastor,  and  Rev.  J.  H.  Kerr  to  the  people.  During  the  present 
pastorate  the  congregation  has  increased  in  numbers  from  eighty- 
six  to  one  hundred  and  eighteen.  In  1886,  the  roll  showed  a  mem- 
bership of  one  hundred  and  twenty-five. 

Lycurgus  Mechlin,  son  of  William  and  Catharine  Mechlin, 
was  born  in  Butler  county,  Pa.,  September  28,  1841.  His  mothe*" 
died  when  he  was  only  nine  years  old..  His  father  removed  to 
Pike  county,  Ohio,  in  1852,  where  he  spent  his  "teen's"  with  very 
limited  opportunities  for  attending  school.  October  12,  1861,  he 
enlisted  in  the  53d  Regiment,  Ohio  Volunteer  Infantry;  served 
under  Sherman  in  the  army  of  "  The  Tennessee;"  re-enlisted,  Jan- 
uary, 1864,  at  Scottsboro,  Ala. ;  went  through  "  with  Sherman  to 
the  sea;"  was  wounded  four  times,  and  carries  a  piece  of  "rebel  " 
lead  in  his  face.  He  was  mustered  out  of  service,  August  11,  1865, 
at  Little  Rock,  Arkansas,  and  discharged  at  Camp  Dennison,  Ohio, 
September  10,  same  year.  He  entered  Glade  Run  Academy, 
November  5,  1867,  and  prepared  for  the  Sophomore  class  in 
Washington  and  Jefferson  College,  and  entered  college  in  the  fall 
of  1871,  graduated  in  1874,  and  graduated  at  Western  Theological 
Seminary  in  1877,  and  the  same  year  accepted  calls  from  Currie's 
Run  and  Elderton  Presb}  terian  churches,  his  first  and  only  charge. 

THE    ELDERSHIP. 

Robert  Martin  and  John  Shannon  were  the  first  elders  ordained 
and  installed.  Mr.  Martin  died  August  5,  1866.  Mr.  Shannon 
was  dismissed  April,  1869.  August  31,  1856,  Andrew  Kimmel 
and  R.  T.  Robinson  were  chosen  elders.  !Mr.  Kimmel  was 
ordained,  and  he  and  Mr.  Robinson  were  installed.  Mr.  Robinson 
was  dismissed  to  Cherry  Run  churcli.  Mr.  Kimmel  died  August 
24,  1879,  after  serving  twenty-three  years  in  the  eldership. 

R.  M.  Gibson,  Esq.,  John  Hotham  and  Dr.  J.  L.  Hazlett  were 
ordained   and   installed,  April  25,  1864.     Mr.  Hotham   died  April 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  187 

27,  1868.  He  was  a  faithful  man  in  the  discharge  of  ^he  duties  of 
his  office  and  liberal  in  supporting  the  gospel.  Dr.  Hazlett  was 
dismissed  to  the  Presbyterian  church  of  Indiana,  Pa.,  May  1, 
1868.  D.  W.  Hawk  and  M.  R.  Hall,  were  elected  June  28,  1868, 
and  ordained  and  installed  August  31,  same  year. 

October  30,  1876,  Matthew  Rankin,  J.  M.  St.  Clair,  M.  D.,and 
Newton  R  osborough  were  elected;  they  were  ordained  and 
installed  by  Rev.  A.  Donaldson,  D.  D.,  March  19,  1877. 

The  congregation  has  elected  twelve  elders  since  its  organiza- 
tion, five  of  whom  constitute  the  present  session,  namel}-,  R.  M. 
Gibson,  Esq.,  D.  W.  Hawk,  M.  R.  Hall,  J.  M.  St.  Clair,  M.  D., 
and  Newton  Rosborough. 

SABBATH     SCHOOL. 

The  school  was  organized  in  the  spring  of  1858,  with  Andrew 
Kimmell  superintendent.  He  took  great  interest  in  the  work. 
Through  his  efforts  a  library  was  secured,  he  contributing  the 
greater  part  of  the  funds  himself.  Dr.  J.  L.  Hazlett  succeeded 
Mr.  Kimmell,  but  there  are  no  recoixls  showing  how  long  either  of 
them  served.  Mr.  M.  R.  Hall  was  chosen  in  1869,  and  served 
three  years;  R.  M,  Gibson  succeeded  him  and  served  two  years, 
when  Mr.  Hall  was  re-elected  for  one  year.  In  1875,  D.  VV. 
Hawk  was  elected  for  one  year,  then,  Mr.  Hall  being  I'e-elected, 
served  two  years.  Mr.  Newton  Rosborough  was  chosen  in  1878, 
and  served  four  years,  when  Mr.  Hall  again  assumed  the  duties  of 
the  office  and  continued  until  the  spring  of  1886,  when  Mr.  M.  K. 
Gibson  was  elected.  Up  to  this  time  the  supei'intendents  had  all 
been  elected  by  the  session  and  from  the  members  of  the  session, 
until  M.  K.  Gibson,  who  was  elected  by  the  session  from  the  con- 
gregation. He  was  re-elected  last  spring,  and  has  taken  great 
interest  in  the  school.  If  God  spares  him  to  us,  we  hope  he  will 
continue  superintendent  for  many  years. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

A  Woman's  Missionary  Society  was  organized  in  1875,  with 
twelve  members.  This  society  has  contributed  annually  to  the 
general  fund  for  Foreign  Missions.  A  Home  Missionary  ^ciety 
was  organized  in  the  summer  of  1886,  with  fifteen  members,  which 
number  has  been  increased. 


188  HISTOKY    OF    THE 


The  contributions  to  the  "  Boards  "  have  slowly  increased.  In 
1885  they  amounted  to  two  hundred  and  forty  dollars,  being  a 
fraction  of  over  two  dollars  per  member. 

The  finances  of  the  congregation  from  date  of  organization 
until  1860,  were  managed  by  the  session.  Then  a  board  of  trustees 
was  elected,  consisting  of  R.  M.  Gibson,  William  Herron,  and 
John  Hotham.  There  is  no  record  of  their  successors.  The 
present  board  consists  of  J.  M.  Stewart,  Alexander  George  and 
Samuel  Neal. 

Among  the  many  blessings  for  which  this  congregation  should 
praise  the  great  Head  of  the  church,  I  would  mention  its  peaceful 
life,  its  steady  growth,  its  quiet  Sabbath,  and  the  memory  of  the 
beloved  dead. 


"  Here  I  raise  my  Ebenezer, 
Hither  by  thy  help  I'm  come." 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  189 


FREEPORT. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY    REV,    T.    M.    THOMPSON. 


The  date  of  the  first  Presbyterian  preaching  in  Freeport  was 
about  the  year  1827.  In  that  year  Rev.  John  Redick,  who  was 
settled  as  pastor  of  the  churches  of  Siatehck  and  Union,  made  this 
a  preaching  point,  and  came  down  occasionally  and  preached  in  the 
grove  on  the  other  side  of  Buffalo  creek,  and  also  in  the  mill  on 
Buffalo  creek,  owned  by  Jas.  and  Isaac  Bole,  a  short  distance  north 
of  town.  Father  Redick  continued  these  services  at  intervals,  until 
the  year  1830.  Thus  to  this  venerable  servant  of  Christ  belongs 
the  honor  of  first  planting  Jie  standard  of  Presbyterianism  in 
Freeport. 

"  On  the  11th  of  July,  1850,  he  fell  asleep  in  Jesus,  in  the 
seventy-third  year  of  his  age,  and  the  thirty-seventh  of  his  minis- 
try. His  mortal  remains  await  the  resurrection  in  the  little  grave- 
yard attached  to  the  Slatelick  church." 

After  the  year  1830,  there  was  occasional  preaching  by  the 
Rev.  John  Wilson,  of  the  Presbytery  of  Allegheny,  who  labored 
in  the  capacity  of  a  Presbyterial  missionary.  He  was  followed  by 
Rev.  Joseph  Johnston,  in  the  year  1832,  or  1833,  who  was  proba- 
bly instrumental  in  the  organization  of  the  church.  He  also  was 
engaged  either  as  a  kind  of  Presbyterial  missionary,  or  as  stated 
supply. 

ORGANIZATION. 

On  the  3d  of  July,  1833,  the  «  Presbyterian  Church  of  Free- 
port,"  was  organized  by  the  Presbytery  of  Allegheny.  At  that 
time  two  ruling  elders  were  elected,  ordained  and  installed,  viz: 
William  Hill  and  Michael  Moorhead.       The   roll   of  the  members 


190  HISTORY    OF    THE 


at  the  date  of  organization,  (thirty-one  in  number)  is  fortunately 
preserved,  and  is  as  follows:  James  Bole  and  wife,  Isaac  Bole  and 
wife,  William  Hill  and  wife,  Nancy  Hill,  Maria  Hill,  Margaret 
Hill,  Andrew  Ralston  and  wife,  James  Ralston  and  wife,  Jane 
Weir,  Elizabeth  Weir,  Mary  Weir,  Mary  Woods,  James  McCall 
and  wife,  Mary  Murray,  Elizabeth  Roeny,  Margaret  Stewart, 
William  Laughery  and  wif^',  Margaret  Girt,  Betsy  Girt,  Mary 
Girt,  James  Bole,  Mary  Ann  Bole,  Michael  Moorhead  and  wife. 
Five  of  these  original  members  are  still  living,  and  four  of  them 
are  at  present  members  of  this  church,  viz:  Margaret  Hill,  Mary 
Weir,  (Mrs.  Callen,)  Mary  Ann  Bole,  (Mis.  J.  W.  McKee),  and 
Elizabeth  Girt.  For  some  time  after  the  organization  Mr.  Johnston 
continued  to  labor  here  and  at  Tarentum,  a  little  over  a  year. 
Shortly  after  leaving  this  field  of  labor,  he  returned  to  Canada 
whence  he  had  come,  took  Asiatic  cholera  and  died. 

REV.  SAMUEL  Caldwell's  pastorate. 

Sometime  during  the  summer  or  early  fall  of  1834,  Mr.  John- 
ston introduced  to  the  congregation,  Rev.  Samuel  Caldwell,  who 
was  also  a  native  of  Ireland,  and  for  whom  a  call  was  soon  after- 
wards made  out,  and  on  the  8th  day  of  October,  1834,  Rev.  Mr, 
Caldwell  was  ordained  and  installed  pastor  of  the  united  churches 
of  Freeport,  Tarentum,  and  Bull  Creek,  preaching  one-third  of 
the  time  at  each  place.  In  1836,  Mr.  Caldwell  relinquished  the 
charo-e  of  Bull  Creek  church,  and  divided  his  time  between  Free- 
port  and  Tarentum.  Phis  arrangement  continued  until  the  year 
1843,  when  he  ceased  to  preach  at  Tarentum,  and  labored  during 
the  remainder  of  his  pastorate  here,  at  Freeport  and  Leechburg, 
and  afterwards  at  Freeport  and  Brady's  Bend — Freeport  having 
three-fourths  of  his  time.  In  1836  the  shower  of  heavenly  grace 
descended  upon  the  young  organization,  and  at  one  communion 
there  were  added  to  the  church,  twenty-six  on  profession  of  their 
faith  and  nine  on  certificate,  making  thirty-five  in  all. 

The  minutes  of  session,  as  preserved,  begin  on  the  12th  ot  May, 
1843.  In  addition  to  the  original  elders,  the  following  names  of 
rulino-  elders  appear  during  this  pastorate,  viz:  Jameson  Hendricks, 
J.  Noble  Nesbit  and  Archie  Robinson,  of  wliose  ordination  no, 
record    is    made;  James  McCall,  first    mentioned    May   13,  1843; 


PRKSBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  191 

Joseph  A.  Barton,  and  Dr.  D.  M.  Boreland  first  mentioned  April 
-8,  1844;  James  Hill,  John  Woods,  Esq.,  and  William  Hughes,  first 
mentioned,  AjDril  15,  1844. 

In  the  spring  of  1845,  Rev.  Mr.  Caldwell  took  his  departure 
for  Ireland  on  a  visit  to  his  native  land.  He  was  absent  about  one 
year,  when  at  his  request,  and  with  the  concurrence  of  the  congre- 
gation, the  Presbytery  of  Allegheny  dissolved  the  pastoral  relation, 
and  the  first  pastorate  of  nearly  twelve  years  ended.  Mr.  Cald- 
well by  reason  of  physical  inability,  was  laid  aside  from  active 
ministerial  service  for  a  number  of  years  before  he  died,  which  was 
Tuly  1(1,  1883,  in  Allegheny,  Pa.,  aged  83  years. 

VACANCY    FROM    1846     TO    1849. 

On  the  21st  of  November,  1845,  during  the  pastor's  absence, 
and  the  21st  of  August,  1846,  the  name  of  Rev.  Mr.  Smith 
appears  on  the  minutes  as  Moderator  of  session.  After  Mr.  Cald- 
well ceased  to  be  pastor.  Rev.  John  K.  Cornyn  supplied  the  pulpit 
for  a  short  time  by  appointment  of  Presbytery,  having  his  head- 
quarlers  at  the  VVestern  Theological  Seminary,  Allegheny,  which 
he  considered  his  home.  Mr.  Cornyn  was  born  in  Cumberland 
county.  Pa.,  in  1815,  was  licensed  in  1845;  labored  in  the  Presby- 
tery of  Erie  for  several  years,  and  afterwards  moved  to  Troy,  Pa., 
where  he  died  of  consumption  on  the  22d  of  December,  1853.  He 
was  followed  by  Rev.  D.  D.  McKee,  who,  for  nearly  two  years, 
labored  as  stated  supply.  His  name  first  appears  as  Moderator  of 
the  session,  September  26,  1846,  and  the  last  time  November  5, 
1847.     Duiing  the  year  1848  there  are  no  records  of  session, 

PASTORATE    OF    REV.    WM.    F.    KEAN. 

During  the  year  1848,  Rev.  Wm.  F.  Kean,  a  native  of  West- 
moreland county,  who  was  then  about  completing  his  studies  at  the 
Western  Theological  Seminary,  began  preaching  as  a  supply  in 
Freeport.  Some  time  during  the  following  year  he  received  a  call 
to  the  churches  of  Freeport  and  Slatelick,  which  he  accepted,  and 
in  September,  1849,  he  was  ordained  and  installed  as  pastor  of  these 
two  churches,  giving  half  of  his  time  to  each.  On  the  27th  of 
March,  1852,  Dr.  Samuel  T.  Redick  and  Arthur  Kiskadden  were 
f rdained  and  installed  as  ruling  elders.  In  the  year  1858,  this 
church,  under  the  ministrations  of  Mr.  Kean,  shared  in  the  glorious 


192  HISTORY    OF    THE 


revival  which  sv\'cpt.  over  the  land,  twenty-three  being  added  to  the 
church  during  that  year  on  profession  of  their  faith,  and  nineteen 
on  certificate,  making  a  total  of  forty-two.  On  the  8th  of  April, 
1859,  the  following  persons  were  ordained  and  installed  as  ruling 
elders,  viz:  Dr.  William  P.  McCulloch,  Samuel  Sloan,  Thomas 
King,  John  M.  Orr,  and  Alfred  D.  Weir. 

On  the  10th  of  October,  1868,  the  session  was  still  further 
strengthened  by  the  installation  as  ruling  elders  of  Samuel  Ken- 
nedy and  John  H.  Baird,  and  the  ordination  and  installation  ot 
Samuel  C.  Alter,  and  on  the  8th  of  May,  1868,  by  the  ordination 
and  installation  of  James  Shields. 

On  the  10th  of  June,  1864,  Mr.  Kean  was  called  to  Frecport 
for  the  whole  of  his  time,  and  the  pastoral  relation  between  him 
and  the  church  of  Slatelick  accordingly  dib>solved.  After  nineteen 
years  of  faithful  ministry,  in  the  spring  of  1868  he  resigned  the 
pastoral  charge  of  Freeport,  from  which  he  was  released  by  the 
Presbytery  of  Allegheny.  For  about  a  year  after  leaving  Free- 
port,  Mr.  Kean  labored  in  Columbus  City,  Iowa,  after  which  he 
took  an  extended  tour  through  Europe,  Egypt  and  the  H0I3'  Land. 
Returning  from  this  trip  he  was  called  to  the  church  of  Braddock, 
Pa.,  which  charge  he  resigned  April,  1882.  From  this  time  until 
his  death  he  assumed  no  pastoral  relation,  but  labored  as  an  evange- 
list, making  his  home  at  Sewickley,  Pa.  He  died  very  suddenly 
October  22,  1886,  in  the  seventy-first  year  of  his  age,  in  San  Fran- 
cisco, Cal.,  where  he  had  gone  for  recreaiipn  and  health. 

VACANCY   OF   1868-9. 

During  the  winter  of  1868-9,  Mr.  S.  Miller  Davis,  a  student  of 
the  Western  Theological  Seminary,  supplied  the  pulpit,  either 
preaching  himself  or  sending  others,  in  his  place. 

PASTORATE    OF    REV.    JOHN    J.    FRANCIS. 

On  the  10th  day  of  July,  1869,  at  a  regular  meeting  of  the  con- 
gregation, a  call  was  extended  to  Rev.  J.  J.  Francis,  a  recent 
graduate  of  the  Western  Theological  Seminary.  This  call  was 
accepted  by  Mr.  Francis,  and  on  the  22d  of  October  of  the  same 
year,  at  a  meeting  of  the  Presbytery  of  Allegheny,  he  was 
ordained  and  installed.  Rev.  S.  H.  Holliday  preached  the  ordina- 
tion sermon,  Rev.   Prof.    W.   I.   Brugh    presided   and  offered  the 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  193 

ordaining  prayer,  Rev.  S.  A.  Hughes  delivered  the  charge  to  the  pas- 
tor, and  Rev.  Wm.  D.  Patton  the  charge  to  the  congregation.  The 
members  of  the  session  at  this  time  were  William  Hughes,  Alfred 
D.  Weir  and  Samuel  C.  Alter.  On  the  10th  of  April,  1870,  John 
L.  Bricker  and  Robert  A.  Kiskaddon  having  been  previously 
elected  to  the  office  of  ruling  elder,  were  ordained  and  installed. 
Dr.  Robert  L.  AlcCurdy  having  also  at  the  same  time  been  elected 
to  the  same  office,  and  being  already  an  ordained  ruling  elder,  was 
duly  installed.  On  the  24th  of  October,  1872,  Wm.  Hughes,  the 
senior  member  of  session,  a  faithful  officer  in  the  church  of  Christ 
for  twent)-- eight  years,  entered  into  the  heavenly  rest.  In  the  year 
J  879,  October  9th,  the  pastoral  relation  existing  between  this  con- 
gregation and  the  Rev.  J.  J.  Francis  was  dissolved  by  the  Presby- 
tery of  Kittanning.  Thus,  for  almost  ten  years,  Mr.  Francis  con- 
tinued the  successful  and  dearly  loved  pastor  of  this  people. 

VACANCY   OF   1879-1882. 

From  this  date  until  December  1,  1882,  the  pulpit  was  occupied 
by  su])plies.  Mr.  Henry  C.  Minton,  a  licentiate  and  student  of  the 
Western  Theological  Seminary,  served  in  this  capacity  as  a  stated 
supply  for  six  months  beginning  May  1,  1880. 

From  this  time  till  the  summer  of  1881  the  pulpit  was  supplied 
by  various  ministers,  Mr.  A.  C.  Good,  a  licentiate  and  student  of 
Western  Theological  Seminary,  supplying  for  the  most  part  till 
the  fall  ot  1882. 

PASTORATE    OF    REV.    T.    M.    THOMPSON. 

On  the  25th  day  of  November,  1882,  the  Rev.  T.  M.  Thomp- 
son, of  the  Presbytery  of  Butler,  was  called  as  pastor,  and  on 
December  1st  of  the  same  year,  entered  on  his  duties  as  such,  and 
was  duly  installed,  January  17,  1888.  Rev.  David  Hall,  D.  D., 
preached  the  sermon,  Rev.  S.  W.  Miller,  D.  D.,  presided  and 
delivered  the  charge  to  the  people,  and  the  Rev.  D.  H.  Sloan  gave 
the  charge  to  the  pastor.  Following  the  week  of  prayer,  Januaiy, 
1883,  a  quiet  season  of  refreshing  and  quickening  was  enjoyed,  at 
which  time  twenty-one  persons  were  received  into  the  membership 
of  the  church  on  profession  of  their  faith  in  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 
On  July  3d,  of  this  year,  the  semi-centennial   anniverssary   of  the 


194  HISTORY    OF    THE 


organization  of  the  congregation,  was  celebrated,  at  which  time  all 
the  pastors  that  had  served  the  church  were  present  except  Rev. 
Samuel  Caldwell,  who  was  at  this  time  lying  on  a  sick  bed,  which, 
seven  days  afterwards,  proved  to  be  his  death  bed.  On  October 
19,  1888,  elder  John  L.  Bricker,  an  earnest  and  faithful  officer  of 
the  church,  died,  and  on  the  following  January  27,  W.  D.  Lowther 
and  James  Gregg  were  ordained  and  installed  ruling  elders.  On 
November  16,  1885,  while  at  prayer-meeting,  elder  VV,  D. 
Lowther,  a  consecrated  and  devout  ruler  in  the  church,  dropped 
dead,  a  beautiful  and  befitting  ending  of  a  quiet  and  meek  life.  On 
January  18,  1887,  elder  A.  D.  Weir  was  dismissed  by  letter  to  the 
Presbyterian  church  of  Butler,  Pa.  The  session  on  March  16, 
1887,  sustained  another  heavy  loss  by  the  death  of  James  Greeg,  a 
man  of  jDre-eminent  piety  and  faithfulness,  and  who  through  a 
period  of  extended  sickness,  bore  rich  evidence  of  a  strong  and 
abiding  faith  in  his  Lord  and  Master.  During  this  same  year, 
March  27th,  the  session  was  again  strengthened  by  the  addition  of 
two  elders,  D.  A.  Cunningham  and  H.  S.  Smith. 

CHURCH    PROPERTY. 

About  the  time  of  the  organization  of  the  church,  James"  Arm- 
strong deeded  a  lot  on  Fourth  street,  opposite  the  old  graveyard, 
to  the  Presbyterians,  Seceders  and  Episcopalians,  on  which  to  erect 
a  church  building.  On  this  lot  the  first  house  of  worship,  a  frame 
building,  was  erected  by  the  three  denominations  above  mentioned. 
The  "  Presbyterians  afterwards  became  the  sole  owners  by  pur- 
chasing the  interests  of  the  other  congregations.  In  1849,  the  site 
of  the  present  property  was  purchased  from  John  Kennedy,"  and 
in  1850  a  brick  house  of  worship  was  erected.  "  In  1869,  it  was 
thoroughly  repaired,  and  again  in  the  spring  of  1875  was  repaired 
and  improved.  At  a  congregational  meeting  held  1884,  it  was 
decided  to  pull  down  the  old  house  of  worship  and  erect  a  new 
edifice  on  the  same  site.  In  May  of  the  same  year,  the  work  of 
removing  the  old  structure  and  building  the  new  one  was  com- 
mencd.  The  new  building  is  of  brick,  is  of  modern  architecture, 
has  a  seating  capacity  of  about  five  hundred,  and  was  erected  at  a 
cost  of  $12,500.  On  the  first  Sabbath  of  September,  1885,  it  was 
dedicated.  Rev.  David  Hall,  D.  D.,  preached  the  sermon,  and  the 
pastor.  Rev.  T.  M.  Thompson,  offered  the  dedicatory  prayer. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  195 

CONCLUSION. 

Thus  have  we  written  in  brief  and  rapid  outline  the  liistory  of 
the  Presbyterian  church  of  Freeport,  Pa.  Truly  have  we  good 
reason  to  say  that  goodness  and  mercy  have  followed  us  all  through 
our  history  of  half  a  century  and  more,  and  now  with  ovu"  trust 
still  firm  in  the  great  Head  of  the  church,  and  in  humble  reliance 
on  God  who  helpeth  all  our  infirmities,  we  go  forward  feeling  with 
the  apostle  of  old,  "  Not  as  though  we  had  already  attained,  either 
were  already  perfect,  but  we  follow  after,  if  that  we  may  appre- 
hend that  for  which  also  we  are  apprehended  of  Christ  Jesus." 


196  HISTORY    OP'    THE 


GILGAL 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY  REV.  J.  Q.  A.  KULLERTON. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


ORGANIZATION. 


Gilgal,  a  "  mother  of  churches,"  formerly  of  the  mother  Pres- 
bytery of  Redstone,  traces  her  origin  to  an  "  Improvement " 
entered  upon  in  1797  by  Robert  and  Hugh  Thompson  and  Hugh 
Cannon  from  Westmoreland  county,  who  were  soon  followed  by 
other  Presbyterians,  or  those  of  like  proclivities,  locating  chiefly 
north  of  the  "  purchase  line  "  in  Mahoning.  They  had  occasional 
preaching  until  1806,  when  the  Rev.  James  Galbreath,  a  licentiate 
of  the  Presbytery  of  Redstone,  supplied  them  a  portion  of  his  time, 
which  led  to  the  organization  of  Gilgal  congregation  in  1808. 

THE    PASTORATE. 

The  Rev.  James  Galbreath  being  duly  installed  continued  his 
pastorate  until  1817,  giving  one-half  time  for  several  years  to 
Manor  (now  Harmony)  church,  and  afterwards  to  Indiana.  He 
was  followed  in  1818  by  Rev.  John  Reed,  licentiate  from  Wash- 
ington Presbytery,  who  as  pastor  equally  divided  his  time  between 
Gilgal  and  Indiana  until  1839,  when  his  whole  time  was  given  to 
the  latter  church.     He  died  the  following  year. 

The  next  and  longest  pastorate  was  that  of  Rev.  John 
Caruthers,  born  in  Westmoreland  county.  May  5,  1807,  graduated 
from  Wasliington  College,  1826,  from  Western  Theological 
Seminary,  1839,  a  licentiate  of  the  Presbytery  of  Washington,  who 
supplied  this  church    from    August,  1839,  until  his  ordination    and 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  197 

installation  by  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville,  June  4,  1840.  His 
services  were  equally  divided  betwreen  Gilgal  and  Perry  (the 
latter  church  now  in  the  Presbytery  of  Clarion)  until  1854, 
when  Perry  was  resigned  to  prepare  the  way  for  another  pastoral 
charge,  and  the  time  transferred  to  Mt.  Pleasant,  a  colony  of 
Gilgal,  and  other  points  as  providentially  indicated,  until  he  was 
regularly  engaged  at  other  colonies  of  Gilgal;  Marion  from  1860 
to  1869,  and  at  Rockbridge  from  1869  to  1870.  He  resigned  his 
connection  with  Gilgal  in  1870.  Mr.  Caruthers  was  first  married 
in  1840  to  Miss  Sophia  Huston,  and  in  1867  to  Miss  Mary,  daugh- 
ter of  Rev.  David  Kirkpatrick.  He  died  at  Washington,  Pa., 
November  27,  1880. 

The  Rev.  Carl  Moore,  received  from  the  Presbytery  of  Cin- 
cinnati, April,  1869,  was  stated  supply  of  Gilgal  from  1871  to 
1887,  and  during  that  time  also  supplied  adjoining  churches. 

Rev.  W.  T.  Gibson,  licentiate  of  the  Presbytery  of  Allegheny, 
came  April  1,  1877,  and  after  statedly  supplying  Gilgal,  Mt.  Pleas- 
ant and  Rockbridge  for  about  three  months,  was  ordained  and 
installed  their  pastor,  which  he  continued  to  be  until  he  resigned  in 
1882  and  went  West.  These  same  congregations  were  supplied  by 
the  Presbytery  for  six  months  in  1882,  and  then  for  six  months  by 
the  Rev.  A.  S.  Elliot,  a  licentiate  of  the  Clarion  Presbytery,  and 
he  being  ordained,  was  installed  over  them  in  the  spring  of  1883, 
resigning  a  year  thereafter.  In  November,  1884,  Rev.  W.  F. 
Gibson  returned  and  remained  two  years.  These  congregations 
are  at  the    present  time  vacant,  but  with  a  pastor  in  prospect. 

THE    ELDERSHIP. 

At  the  organization  of  the  church,  John  Work  and  Joshua 
Lewis  were  chosen  and  set  apart,  and  soon  followed  by  William 
Hopkins,  Hugh  Cannon,  William  Work,  Isaac  Van  Horn,  and 
later  bj  John  Sutor,  John  Hastings,  William  McClusky  and  Moses 
Crawford.  In  September,  1849,  Robert  Thompson,  grandson  of 
the  patriarch  whose  name  is  mentioned  at  the  beginning  of  this 
sketch,  William  Black,  Robert  Park  and  Archibald  J.  T.  Craw- 
ford were  added,  and  in  May  1859,  Charles  Bovard,  Thomas 
Stewart,  Robert  Thompson,  Jr,,  another  grandson  of  the  pioneer, 
and  Samuel  Stuchell.  Of  the  foregoing  William  Black  and  A.  J. 
T.  Crawford  have  been  dismissed  to  Mt.   Pleasant,  and  John  Sutor 


198  HISTORY    OF    THE 


and  Robert  Park  to  Marion.  Samuel  T.  Brady,  Samuel  P.  Black 
and  Samuel  K.  Lockhart  were  added  September  21,  1867,  and 
John  A.  Work  and  Henry  K.  Dilts,  May  14,  1886.  The  four  last 
named  with  Thomas  Stewart  constitute  the  present  session,  of 
which  S.  P.  Black  is  clerk. 

DEACONS    AND    TRUSTEES. 

In  1842,  a  board  of  deacons  was  constituted  of  William  Riddle, 
John  Allison,  Matthew  Wynkoop  and  William  G.  Stewart,  but  it 
was  thought  better  to  emphisize  the  legal  obligation  m  the  further- 
ance of  the  finances  of  the  church,  and  in  1852  it  was  incorporated 
and  provision  made  for  a  board  of  six  trustees.  The  first  were 
Henry  Van  Horn,  Jacob  Stuchell,  John  Craig,  James  Bovard,  John 
Pollock  and  John  L.  McComb. 

HOUSES    OF    WORSHIP. 

For  some  time  after  organization,  worship  was  conducted  in 
private  houses,  and  on  sacramental  occasions  in  a  tent.  Not  earlier 
than  1810  the  first  house,  and  on  the  present  site,  was  commenced, 
but  not  finished  until  several  years  later.  Part  of  the  ground  was 
a  gift  from  William  P.  Brady.  The  building  was  forty  feet  square, 
and  of  hewn  logs,  which  had  been  prepared  for  a  barn,  each  con- 
tributor having  purchased  his  quota  of  logs  for  a  stipulated  quantity 
of  wheat.  This  structure  was  afterwards  extended  twelve  feet  to 
meet  the  increased  demands,  and  was  no  doubt  the  best  church 
building  in  a  wide  extent  of  country.  But  in  1838  it  was  replaced 
by  a  brick  structure  fifty  feet  square,  costing  $1,800.  which,  how- 
ever, in  1887,  the  congregation  removed  and  erected  a  new 
structure  on  the  same  site,  a  commodious  and  tasteful  house  of 
worship. 

MEMBERS    AND    COLONIES. 

Probably  two  hundred  names  were  enrolled  down  to  the  year 
1840,  there  being  one  himdred  members  at  that  time.  From  1840 
to  1860,  two  hundred  and  eighty-seven  were  added  on  confession  ot 
faith,  and  eighty-nine  on  certificate.  But  this  church  being  the  first 
and  for  a  considerable  time  the  only  church  of  any  denomination  in 
the  county  nortft  of  Indiana,  it  became  the  religious  home  of  all 
whose  doctrinal  faith  was  in  harmony  with  it.  In  1828,  elder  Wm. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  199 

Work  died,  when  his  wife,  reared  in  the  Associate  or  Seceder 
Church,  joined  with  others  and  formed  such  an  organization,  now 
the  United  Presbyterian  Church  of  Alahoning,  In  1843,  Rouse's 
version  of  the  psalms  being  superseded,  a  secession  occurred  form- 
ing an  Associate  Reformed  organization,  now  the  United  Presby- 
terian Church  of  Smyrna,  In  1854,  about  twelve  famiUes  of  Gilgal 
congregation  located  from  five  to  eight  miles  north  of  the  church, 
uniting  with  others  in  their  vicinity  for  more  convenient  worship, 
originated  Mt.  Pleasant  church,  taking  thiity-five  members  from 
Gilgal.  In  June,  1860,  Presbytery  granted  an  organization  at 
Marion,  on  the  south,  which  drew  twenty  families  and  about  fifty 
members  from  Gilgal.  In  1864,  some  ten  or  twelve  families  resid- 
ing a  distance  of  from  five  to  eight  miles  to  the  east,  secured  from 
the  Presbytery  an  organization  of  the  Rockbridge  church  at 
Richmond.  These  constant  reductions  and  other  natural  causes 
have  left  Gilgal  a  membership  of  fifty-five  in  1887. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

"  Societies,"  or  prayer  meetings  in  the  early  day  were  held  in 
private  houses,  and  have  been  maintained  to  this  time,  although 
through  much  fluctuation.  Sabbath  Sciiool  was  in  operation 
during  Mr.  Reed's  pastorate,  and  about  1880,  Rev.  John  Andrews, 
of  the  Pittsburgh  Recorder^  organized  local  Sabbath  Schools,  but 
they  had  a  temporary  existence.  In  1840,  the  church  Sabbath 
School  was  reorganized  and  flourished  for  several  years,  when  it 
gradually  declined  until  extinct,  although  a  district  Sabbath  School 
was  maintained  at  the  Stuchell  school  house.  In  1859,  the  district 
system  was  extended.  A  very  large  and  vigorous  Temperance 
Society  had  its  existence  here,  and  the  support  of  the  elders,  previ- 
ous to  1840.  Missionary  collections  were  lifted  during  the  pastor- 
ate of  Mr.  Reed,  and  since  1840  the  church  has  been  in  a  good  de- 
gree regular  in  its  contributions.  Three  sons  of  Gileal  have  been 
given  to  the  ministry — James  W.  McCluskey,  licensed  1851,  James 
M.  Shields,  1854,  and  Joseph  S.  Stuchell,  1861. 

Thus,  the  annals  of  three-quarters  of  a  century  show  that 
Gilgal  church  has  held  a  most  prominent  and  influential  place  in  the 
history  of  this  Presbytery,  and,  reviewing  the  churches  that  encircle 
her,  north,  south,  east  and  west,  it  may  be  said,  "  Gilgal  is  mother 
of  them  all." 


200  HISTORY    OF    THE 


GLADE  RUN. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY    REV.    GEORGE    W,    MECHLIN,    D.    D. 


ORGANIZATION    AND    EARLY    HISTORY. 

From  the  best  information  now  attainable  Glade  Run  Church 
was  organized  in  1808  by  the  election  and  ordination  of  James 
Kirkpatrick  and  William  Marshall  as  ruling  elders.  This  territory 
was  then  within  the  bounds  of  Redstone  Presbytery,  in  whose 
minutes  for  the  first  fifty  years  there  is  no  record  of  any  petition 
presented  for  the  organization  of  a  new  church,  nor  any  report  of  a 
committee  appointed  for  that  purpose. 

Mr.  Joseph  Marshall,  who  died  in  1859,  aged  nearly  eighty 
years,  was  part  of  a  company  of  surveyors  who  made  the  first  land 
surveys  on  Glade  Run  in  1801.  In  1801,  or  1803,  his  father,  VVm. 
Marshall,  moved  to  "  this  settlement,"  and  located  on  j^n'ound  a  half 
mile  north  of  that  on  which  the  first  church  was  buiit,  and  on 
which  the  present  building  now  stands.  Four  substantial  Presb)'- 
terian  families  were  living  in  this  vicinity  in  1804,  namely:  James 
and  William  Kirkpatrick,  William    Marshall  and  William  Shields. 

Mr.  Robert  McGarraugh  was  licensed  by  the  Presbytery  of 
Redstone,  October  19,  1803,  and  jippointed  to  supply  "  at  Cowan - 
shawanack  the  first  Sabbath  of  January,"  and  at  the  next  meeting, 
at  the  same  place,  on  the  fourth  Sabbath  of  April.  This  year,  1804, 
or  soon  after,  he  removed  his  family  to  Licking  Creek  in  Clarion 
county,  passing  through  the  Glade  Run  settlement.  Spring  and 
autumn,  as  he  traveled  to  the  Presbytery,  he  preached  at  this  point 
either  as  he  was  going  to  or  recurning  from  the  meeting  of  the 
Presbytery,  or  both. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  201 

Joseph  Marshall's  recollection  was  that  James  Kirkpatrick  and 
William  Marshall  were  ordained  elders  by  Mr,  McGarraugh,  at  a 
meetmg  held  in  his  barn  in  the  autumn  of  1808,  In  that  year  the 
Presbytery  of  Redstone  met  at  Mt.  Pleasant,  October  18,  and  Mr. 
McGarraugh  was  appoin'^ed  to  supply  at  "  Cowanshanick,"  on  the 
fourth  Sabbath  of  October.  This  appointment  he  most  pvob  iblv 
t'ulfilled,  as  he  returned  home.  This  was  his  regular  stopping  place 
on  his  way,  as  long  3*^  he  remained  in  the  Presbvtery  of  Redstone. 

The  late  Hon.  John  Calhoun  located  on  lands  near  the  church 
in  1818,  and  found  a  church  organization  already  existing,  of 
which  he  heard  others  here  before  him  say  Messrs.  Marshall  and 
Kirkpatrick  has  been  elders  four  or  fiye  years.  The  "  recollections" 
of  these  men  are  confirmed  by  the  recollections  of  other  old  settlers. 

In  1811,  "  supplies  were  requested  for  Glade  Run,  formerlj- 
called  Cowanshanick,"  and  Mr.  McGarraugh  and  Mr.  Galhraith 
were  each  appointed  one  Sabbath  at  Glade  Run.  The  former  h^d 
receiyed  appointments  at  the  same  place  in  each  of  the  two  previ- 
ous years.  In  the  fall  of  1811  he  and  his  churches  were  included 
in  the  lately  constituted  Presbvtery  of  Erie.  Therefore,  it  seems 
clear  that  Glade  Run  church  was  organized  in  1808,  and  the  com- 
munion was  celebrated  in  it  for  the  first  time,  most  probably,  on  the 
fourth  Sabbath  of  October  of  that  year.  It  was,  as  far  as  now 
known,  the  first  celebration  of  the  Lord's  Supper  in  Armstrong 
county  east  of  the  Allegheny  river,  certainly  the  first  in  unv 
organized  Presbyterian  church. 

All  the  names  of  members  at  the  organization  now  known  are 
James  and  Margaret  Kirkpatrick,  William  and  Mary  Marshall, 
William  and  Martha  Kirkpatinck,  William  and   Mary  Shields. 

CHURCH    BUILDINGS. 

The  congregation  mtt  in  the  barn  of  Joseph  Marshall,  which 
stood  south  of  the  present  church  about  half  a  mile,  now  on  lands 
of  William  P.  Borland,  in  summer  time,  and  in  winter  in  private 
houses  of  the  members  until  the  erection  of  the  "  first  meeting 
house  "  in  1821.  The  cost  of  this  ouilding  cannot  now  be  known. 
A  subscription  paper  "  for  improvements"  for  this  building,  lately 
discovered  among  the  old  papers  of  Benjamin  Irwin,  Sr.,  in 
possession  of  his  son  Joseph  T.  Irwin,  would  be  a  novelty  to  churcli 
building  committees  of  this  day.        vSome  of   the  items  are   in    this 

26 


202  HISTORY    OF    THE 


style;  A.  B. '"  gits  five  logs,"  C.  D.  "  gits  five  logs,"  E.  F.  "  gits 
five  pair  of  rafters,"  \V.  C  and  J.  K.  "  gits  one  summer,"  and  so 
on  until  the  walls,  roof  and  floor  were  provided  for.  These 
materials  were  to  he  delivered  to  the  committee  in  good  condition 
on  or  hefore  the  1st  day  of  May,  1821.  Committee,  William 
Travis,  Ahel  Findlcy  and  Benjamin  Irwin.  The  house  was  80  hy 
30  feet,  of  hewn  logs,  board  floor  and  shingle  roof.  Another  paper 
containing  about  forty  names,  some  of  whom  resided  over  ten  miles 
away,  retains  their  subscriptions,  varving  from  twenty-five  cents  to 
one  dollar,  "for  purchasing  glass  and  nails  and  fixing  the  meeting 
house."  The  nails  were  wrought  on  the  anvils  of  some  of  the 
subscribers.  This  house  became  too  small,  and  was  replaced  by  a 
frame  building  44  by  54  feet  in  1831.  The  floor  was  of  broad  ash 
boards.  The  walls  were  plastered.  The  pulpit  stood  at  the  north 
end  at  the  top  of  a  stairway  of  about  five  steps  on  each  side,  with 
a  small  door  to  environ  the  preacher  in  his  high  narrow  bounds. 
This  house  was  heated  by  four  stoves,  two  in  each  long  aisle. 
When  they  were  first  "  put  in  "  cannot  now  be  ascertained.  Tradi- 
tion says  thev  were  not  placed  there  without  strong  opposition. 
One  of  the  fathers  remembers  that  he  served  as  sexton  at  four 
dollars  a  year,  and  thinks  "  he  complained  less  of  his  salary  than 
those  who  now  receive  from  sixty  to  seventy  dollars  per  annum." 
The  cost,  contractor  and  building  committee  of  this  house  are  not 
now  known. 

The  third  church  building,  on  the  same  ground  as  the  two 
former  ones,  48  by  60  feet,  frame,  ceiling  16  feet  high,  was  erected 
in  1887,  costing  about  $1,800.  Building  committee,  Harkly  K. 
Marshall,  William  Guthrie  and  Nathaniel  Br^'an.  Contract>)r, 
Morrison  Hosack.  This  house  was  enlarged  in  seating  capacity 
afterwards  by  placing  two  rows  of  pews  in  the  large  communion 
aisle  in  front  of  the  pulpit.  Communion  tables  were  then  dis- 
pensed with.  It  was  again  enlarged  in  1871  by  an  addition  of  16 
feet  to  the  front,  making  the  audience  room  48  by  76  feet,  with 
ninety  pews,  seating  near  six  hundred  persons.  The  cost  of  the 
enlargement  was  about  $700,  and  was  done  under  the  direction  of 
Abraham  Good  and  other  trustees.  The  windows  and  pulpit 
platform  were  remodeled  in  1882,  at  a  cost  of  $200,  and  the  organ 
which  was  introduced  m  1881  was  placed  to  the    left  of  the  pulpit. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  203 


PASTORS    AND    SUPPLIES. 


Rev.  Robert  McGarraugh  was  the  pioneer  prcficher  of  the 
j^ospel  in  this  phice,  and  a  large  region  nortli  of  it.  He  was 
ordained  and  installed  pastor  of  New  Rehoboth  and  Licking 
cliurches,  November  12,  1807.  He  had  moved  his  family  to  their 
bounds  in  1804,  on  horse,  along  bridle  paths,  through  an  almost 
unbroken  wilderness,  fording  the  unbridged  streams.  An  extended 
sketch  of  his  life  is  found  in  the  history  of  Armstrong  county,  pre- 
pared by  R.  \V.  Smith,  Esq.,  pages  221  and  222.  Rev.  James  Mont- 
gomery writes  of  him:  "  He  was  a  God-fearing  man,  v\  ell  educated, 
able  in  prayer,  slow  of  speech,  often  taking  two  or  three  liours  to 
deliver  a  sermon.  So  earnest  was  he  at  times  that  great  tears 
would  roll  from  his  eyes  to  the  floor."  Dr.  S.  J.  M.  Eaton  writes 
of  him:  "  He  sought  not  human  applause,  he  was  not  afraid  of 
hardships,  he  did  not  love  money,  and  so  he  was  adapted  to  his 
field  of  labor."  To-day  his  memory  is  fragrant,  and  his  reward  is 
higher  than  the  stars,  for  it  is  in  God's  great  book  of  remembrance. 
He  preac.iied  at  Callensburg  until  his  death,  July  17,  1839,  aged 
sixty-nine  \ears,  in  the  thirty-sixth  of  his  ministr}-. 

Rev.  J.  Galbreath  and  others  were  appointed  occasional  sup- 
plies by  the  Presbytery  until  the  Rev.  David  Barclay  entered  on 
his  labors  here  in  1819. 

Rev.  David  Barclay  was  received  into  the  Presbyterv  of  Red- 
stone from  the  Presbytery  of  Newton,  N.  J.,  in  1820,  and  made 
stated  supply  of  Harmony,  Glade  Run  and  Plum  Creek  churches 
at  their  request,  and  continued  in  tliis  relation  until  1827.  His 
name  appears  among  the  ministers  who  were  constituttd  the  Pres- 
liytery  of  Blairsville  in  1830.  He  afterwards  united  with  the  Cum- 
berland Presbyterian  Church.  His  labors  here  were  blessed  with 
precious  revivals  in  1821,  1822  and  1825.  A  paper  preserved  by 
George  McCombs,  dated  September  15,  1821,  reads:  "  Communi- 
cants for  the  first  time:  Margaret  Marshall,  John  Marshall  and  his 
wife  Martha,  William  Marshall  and  his  wife  Rebecca,  Thomas 
Wilson,  Sr.,  Thomas  Wilson,  Jr.,  James  Marshall,  Jr.,  and  Mar- 
garet his  wife,  Rebecca  Watt,  Margaret  Guthrie,  Benjamin  Irwm 
and  his  wife  Margaret,  Alexander  Findley  and  his  wife  Catharine, 
Robert  Marshall,  Hugh  Martin,  John  Marshall,  Sr.,  Moses  Kirk- 
patrick,  George  Scott  and  Mary  his  wife,  on  examination;  William 


204  HISTORY    OF    T>1E 


Travis  and  his  wife  Mary,  Elizabeth  Wilson,  Thomas  Wilson  and 
his  wife  Mary,  James  Diven  and  his  wife  Nancy  were  received  on 
letters."  Mr.  Barclay  is  described  as  a  strong  man  physically  and 
intellectually,  of  commanding  person,  strong,  sonorious  voice,  nor 
afraid  of  hardships  in  the  Master's  service,  zealous  for  the  truth,  and 
well  adapted  to  his  large  and  fatiguing  field  of  labor.  I'he  spirit 
of  God  blessed  his  preaching,  and  souls  were  saved.  His  reward 
is  on  high.  Of  his  descendants  there  are  strong  pillars  in  the 
Presbyterian  Church  to  this  day. 

Rev.  Elisha  Doiv  Barrett.,  M.  Z).,  was  the  first  installed  pastor. 
He  was  licensed  by  the  Presbytery  of  Redstone  at  Long  Run, 
April  12,  1827,  and  ordained  and  installed  pastor  of  Glade  Run 
and  Plum  Creek  churches  at  Plum  Creek,  December  9,  1828.  He 
preached  his  farewell  sermon  at  Glade  Run,  November  29,  1840. 
He  was  a  graduate  of  Williams'  College,  Mass.,  in  the  same 
class  with  William  Cullan  Bryant,  of  which  they  were  many 
years  the  only  surviving  members.  He  died  November  6, 
1880,  in  Sedalia,  Mo.,  aged  ninety-one.  Two  Sabbaths  before  his 
death  he  taught  his  class  in  the  Sabbath  School,  thus  laboring  on 
in  the  chosen  work  of  his  life,  according  to  his  strength,  to  the 
end.  He  had  not  been  able  to  preach  for  some  years  before  his 
death.  Threatened  with  throat  disease  at  his  graduation,  he 
studied  medicine,  and  continued  to  practice  some  during  his  pastor- 
ate, often  to  the  great  relief  of  the  people  of  his  charge,  while  it 
frequently  added  much  to  his  labor  as  the  pastor  of  two  churches 
sixteen  miles  apart.  He  shrank  not  from  the  odium  of  controversy 
when  he  thought  the  defence  of  the  truth  demanded  it,  nor  did  he 
hesitate  to  reprove  evils  that  were  popular  and  rebuke  those  guilty 
of  immoral  ccnduct.  He  was  the  first  minister  in  this  region  to 
expose  and  denounce  intemperance.  For  this  reproach  was  cast 
upon  him  for  a  time,  but  his  preaching  placed  the  cause  of  temper- 
ance on  advanced  ground  here,  which  it  has  held  until  the  present 
time.  He  was  among  the  first  here  to  expose  and  oppose  the 
institution  of  human  slavery. 

He  preached  after  he  left  his  charge  at  Glade  Run,  at  Leather- 
wood  and  other  places,  of  which  now  we  have  no  exact  record. 
His  thorough  scholarship  well  qualified  him  for  the  vocation  of  a 
teacher.  As  principal  of  an  academy  in  Kitlanning,  Pa.,  and  a 
teacher  of  an  Indian  school   m  Minnesota,  he  was  employed  many 


1>RESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  205 

years.  His  preaching  was  impressive  and  instructive,  and  under  it 
sinners  were  converted  and  saints  sanctified.  He  loved  the  church 
of  God  and  good  men,  and  sought  their  spiritual  prosperity  to  the 
end  of  his  long  life,  and  his  reward  is  among  the  redeemed  in 
heaven.  Many  of  his  relatives  and  decendants  love  and  sustain  the 
branch  of  the  church  he  loved  and  cherished  by  his  labors. 

James  D.  Mason^  the  second  pastor  of  Glade  Run  church,  was 
born  in  Cross  Creek,  Washington  county,  Pa.,  in  1812;  graduated 
at  Washington  College,  1838,  and  Western  Theological  Seminary 
three  years  later,  was  licensed  by  Washington  Presbytery  the 
second  year,  ordained  by  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville  in  1843,  and 
installed  pastor  of  Glade  Run  and  Rural  Valley,  and  continued  in 
this  relation  until  March,  1848.  He  removed  to  Iowa,  and  was 
pastor  of  the  first  church,  Davenport,  1849-57,  district  missionary 
for  five  years,  and  afterwards  stated  supply  of  the  second  Presby- 
terian Church,  Davenport,  la.,  and  of  other  churches.  Now,  after 
forty-four  years  of  ministerial  toil,  he  is  marked  "honorably  retired" 
on  the  roll  of  Iowa  City  Presbytery. 

Mr.  Mason  was  a  faithful,  earnest,  able  and  sympathetic 
preacher  and  pastor.  "  It  was  a  weeping  time  when  he  left,"  said 
an  elder  of  this  church,  years  ago  deceased.  He  loved  to  lead  and 
join  the  people  of  God  in  the  songs  of  the  sanctuary.  His  memory 
is  precious  yet  to  those  here  who  sat  under  his  preaching. 

Rev.  Cochran  Forbes  succeeded  Mr.  Mason  as  pastor  of  Glade 
Run  and  Rural  Valley,  being  installed  about  the  first  of  July, 
1849.  Leaving  Glade  Run  early  in  May,  1856,  he  removed  to 
Kendalville,  Indiana,  where  he  labored  as  long  as  his  health  would 
endure  the  climate  of  that  region.  He  afterwards  labored  in  Hunt- 
ingdon Presbytery,  Pa.  His  last  work  was  as  chaplain  of  the 
Presbyterian  Hospital,  Philadelphia.  Ministering  the  comforts  of 
the  gospel  to  the  sick  and  dying  is  a  work  to  which  he  was  particu- 
larly adapted.  For  about  twenty-five  years  he  was  a  missionary  of 
the  American  Board  to  the  Sandwich  Islands,  and  saw  much  of  the 
great  change  wrought  by  the  Spirit  of  God  on  the  people. 
Through  his  exertions  largely  the  church  of  Smicksburg  was 
organized,  and  he  cared  kindly  for  it  while  he  remained  in  its 
neighborhood.  He  contributed  much  hy  his  gifts,  his  labors  and 
prayers  to  the  establishment  of  Glade  Run  Academy.  His  preach- 
ing on  missions,  which  he  loved  as   long  as  he   lived,  did  much  to 


206  nrsTORY  of  the 


awaken  the  minds  of  the  peojile  to  their  duty  in  the  cause  of  bene- 
volence; he  was  earnestly  devoted  to  the  progress  of  the  Sabbath 
School,  and  in  these  respects  his  works  follow  him  to  this  day. 

November  5,  1880,  one  day  before  Dr.  Barrett,  he  suddenly 
passed  away  to  his  heavenly  rest,  aged  aV)out  eighty  years,  while 
preparing  to  visit  his  son,  Rev,  Anderson  O.  Forbe-;,  who  has  been 
a  pastor  in  the  Sandwich  Islands  for  over  thirty  years.  His  other 
three  sons  served  in  the  army  in  the  late  civil  war.  Joseph  was 
instantly  shot  dead  near  Atlanta.  Mr.  Forbes  was  an  earnest,, 
attractive  preacher,  zealous  for  the  whole  truth,  v.  ith  a  brotherly 
heart  for  people  of  all  denominations,  and  "  especially  eloquent  and 
powerful  in  revivals."  His  memory  is  fragrant  wherever  he 
labored  for  his  Master. 

Rev.  G.  W.  Mechlin,  the  next  pastor,  was  receivi^d  by  the 
Presbytery  of  Saltsburg  as  a  licentiate  from  the  Presbytery  of 
iVllegheny,  now  Butler,  at  the  first  meeting  in  1857,  and  on  the 
20th  of  February  following,  was  ordained  and  installed  pastor  of 
Glade  Run  and  Concord,  half  time  in  each.  In  1855,  a  call  from 
Glade  Run  for  his  whole  time  was  accepted.  This  relation  still 
continues.  The  years  of  this  pastorate  have  been  years  of  quiec 
labor  and  generally  of  prosperity,  unmarked  by  any  notewortiiy 
changes,  except  what  are  recorded  in  other  parts  of  this  liistory. 
There  have  been  no  serious  strifes  or  divisions.  A  tedious  and 
perplexing  case  of  di.scipline  arising  fi-om  an  unscriptural  divorce 
caused  the  session  much  anxiety  and  trouble.  It  was  protracted  for 
several  years  before  the  session,  Presb3'tery  and  Synod.  By  con- 
sent of  all  parties  it  was  finally  tried  by  a  commission  of  the  Synod 
of  Erie,  at  Erie,  October,  1881,  and  the  decision  of  the  session 
unanimously  sustained. 

MEMBERS    OF    SESSION. 

Under  date  of  May  24,  1889,  we  have  the  following  adopted 
by  session : 

"With  unfeigned  sorrow  we  have  to  record  the  death  of  James  Kirkpat- 
rick,  who  departed  this  life  on  the  22d  of  April.  Mr.  Kirkpatrick  bore  a  part 
and  shared  heavily  in  the  troubles  attendant  on  the  achievement  of  our  Inde- 
pendence. He  was  elected  to  the  office  of  luling  elder,  and  ordained  to  that 
charge  in  the  church  of  Glade  Run  at  the  time  of  its  organization,  and  for 
many  years  sustained  the  labors  of  that  office,  with  benefit  to  the  church,  and 
we  trust,  to  the  glory  of  his  divine  Master.  He  died  at  the  advanced  age  of 
eighty-five  years,  in  much  peace  and  much  lamented." 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  '207 

William  Marshall,  who  was  elected  and  ordained  with  Mr. 
Xirkpatrick,  died  April  28,  1831,  aged  seventy-five,  according  to 
one  record,  another,  seventy-two  years.  There  ire  no  records  ot 
session,  to  perpetuate  his  life  work  as  a  meriiber  of  session,  except 
some  loose  leaves  op  to  1836.  Tradition  uniformly  represents  him 
as  a  good  man,  who  faithfully  discharged  the  duties  of  his  office  as 
an  elder,  and  the  citizen  of  a  new  settlement,  in  which  he  was  one 
of  the  first  to  make  a  home  for  himself  and  family  in  which  the 
minister  of  the  gospel  always  found  a  cheerful  and  cordial  welcome. 
There  are  a  large  number  of  his  descendants  still  living  and  sus- 
taini;ig  the  gospel  he  loved,  while  others  are  a  blessing  to  the 
church  in  other  places.  Rev.  James  H.  Marshall,  pastor  of  Con- 
cord church,  Presbytery  of  Butler,  is  one  of  his  grandsons.  Rev. 
Clark  H.  Marshall,  of  Parnassus,  pastor  of  the  U.  P.  church,  is  a 
great  grandson. 

These  were  the  only  elders  of  this  church  until  1820.  In  that 
year  George  McComb  and  Joseph  Diven  were  elected,  and  they 
were  installed  by  Rev.  David  Barclay.  Mr.  Diven  was  long  an 
highly  esteemed  and  useful  elder  in  Washington  church  and  died 
at  a  venerable  age.  Mr.  McComb  became  a  member  of  this 
church  in  1815,  and  he  appears  from  various  sources  to  have  been 
a  leading  spirit  in  all  the  affairs  of  the  church  until  his  death,  Feb- 
ruary 17,  1859.  He  was  much  respected  by  all  who  knew  him. 
His  youngest  daughter,  Cynthia  S.,  is  the  wife  of  Rev.  B.  S. 
Sloan,  of  Indiana,  Pa. 

Benjamin  Irwin,  Sr.,  John  Marshall  (son  of  William,)  and 
William  Kirkpatrick,  were  ordained  elders,  July  24,  1825.  Mr. 
Irwin  died  June  10,  1850,  aged  seventy-five  years,  Mr.  Marshall 
two  days  later.  Their  death  was  a  sore  bereavemant  to  this 
church.  Both  of  them  were  eminently  fathers  in  Israel,  and  both 
"'  called  suddenly  from  their  labors  on  earth  to  the  church  trium- 
phant in  heaven.  They  were  beloved  and  valuable  members  of 
this  session,  whose  memories  we  cherish  with  warm  affection,  and 
whose  loss  we  deeply  deplore."  (Extract  Minutes  of  session, 
December  21,  1850.)  Their  children  honor  their  fathers  still  in 
this  and  other  churches.  Mr.  Kirkpatrick  died  August  2,  1880, 
aged  seventy-nine  years,  fifty-five  of  which  he  served  as  a  ruling 
elder  with  great  fidelity.  He  frequently  represented  session  in 
Presbj'tery  and  in   Synod,  was  a  constant  worker  in   the  Sunday 


208  HISTORY    OF    THE 


School  as  superintendent   or  teacher,  and   while   health   permitted^ 
always  at  church. 

The  record  of  the  fourth  election  has  been  lost.  Hon,  John 
Cilhoun  and  Messrs.  James  Wilson  and  William  Gaghagan,  as  it 
appears  from  the  minutes  oi  session  for  1836-7,  were  ordained  and 
installed  at  some  previous  date.  These  three  have  all  passed  away. 
Judge  Calhoun  removed  to  Concord  about  the  time  of  its  organi- 
zation in  1889,  and  was  for  thirty-five  years  the  Nestor  of  that 
session.  Rev.  J.  A.  Calhoun,  deceased,  and  Rev,  Joseph  P.  Cal- 
houn, of  Whitesburg,  Pa.,  are  two  of  his  numerous  grandsons,  as 
also  Dr.  J.  A.  Ritchie,  president  of  Hopkins  College,  Iowa.  Mr. 
Wilson  became  an  elder  subsequently  in  a  church  called  Mount 
Pleasant,  in  Porter  township,  Jefferson  county,  but  now  extinct. 
He  died  a  member  of  Glade  Run  church,  October  31, 1856,  highly 
respected  for  his  Christian  character.  His  knowledge  of  the 
Scriptures  was  remarkable  for  his  opportunities,  his  faith  in  them 
very  strong,  and  his  love  for  the  doctrines  formulated  in  the  Con- 
fession of  Faith  sincere  as  well  as  intelligent.  Rev,  Thomas  M. 
Wilson,  deceased,  was  one  of  his  sons. 

Mr.  Gaghagan  passed  away  to  the  church  above,  June  19, 1887. 
He  was  not  spared  long  in  the  service  to  which  he  was  chosen  by 
this  congregation.  But  few  now  in  the  church  remember  his  face» 
but  he  is  well  reported  of  as  a  faithful  servant  of  God  by  those 
personally  acquainted  with  him.  In  his  long  rides  to  the  house  of 
God  he  preached  many  a  long  sermon  as  he  journeyed  to  and  from 
the  sanctuary.  Some  of  his  children  and  grand -children  love  the 
ordinances  which  he  loved  and  worship  in  the  same  church. 

Robert  Wilson  and  Robert  Caldwell  were  elected  in  June, 
1889.  Mr.  Wilson  was  ordained  and  both  were  installed  shortly 
after  their  election.  Mr.  Caldwell  had  been  an  elder  in  the  church 
of  Buffalo,  Presbytery  of  Washington.  He  died  October  23,  1854^ 
in  his  sixty-fourth  year,  Mr.  Caldwell  is  uniformly  represented  bj' 
his  personal  acquaintances  as  a  member  of  high  moral  character, 
intelligent  knowledge  of  the  word  of  God  and  the  duties  of  his 
office,  which  he  faithfully  and  cheerfully  discharged  to  the  end  of 
his  life.  His  family  cherish  and  imitate  his  example  in  their 
attendance  on  all  the  means  of  grace. 

Thomas  Travis,  John  Henderson  and  VVm.  M.  Findley,  wer.."^ 
the  choice  of  the  people  at  the  sixth  election,  and    were   ordained 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  209 

and  installed  on  the  first  Sabbath  of  May,  1844.  Mr.  Travis,  much 
respected  as  a  friend,  a  citizen  and  an  ofKcer  in  the  church,  died 
March  16,  1867,  af:jed  fifty-nine  years.  Like  other  deceased  mem- 
bers of  this  session,  his  memory  is  worthy  of  more  extended  notice 
than  the  space  allotted  will  allow. 

Mr.  Findley  was  an  intelligent,  active  and  devoted  member  of 
this  session  and  died  a  higrhly  esteemed  member  of  the  session  of 
Mechanicsburg,  April  28,  1866,  in  his  forty-ninth  year.  Two  of 
his  sons,  Thomas  M.  and  William  T.,  are  Presbyterian  ministers, 
the  latter  under  appointment  to  the  missionary  work  in  Africa  by 
the  Presbyterian  Board. 

Mr.  Henderson  was  spared  to  the  church,  the  session  and  ihe 
family  he  loved,  and  by  which  he  was  loved  in  return,  until  Janu- 
ary, 1874.  His  age  was  sixty-six  years.  His  amiable  disposition, 
gentle  manners,  unaffected  piety  and  devotion  to  the  prosperity  of 
the  church,  rendered  him  a  father  beloved  among  Christian  people. 

January  6,  1851,  Benjamin  Irwin,  son  of  Benjamin,  Senior, 
John  Wadding  and  John  C.  McComb  were  elected,  and  March 
80th  were  oixlained  and  installed  ruling  elders  in  the  church. 
Robert  Wilson,  having  returned  from  Mount  Pleasant  church,  was 
installed  with  them. 

Mr.  McComb  was  dismissed  to  Pisgah  church,  Clarion  Presby- 
tery, in  1854,  where  he  f;iithfully  served  the  church  for  years.  Mr. 
Wadding  was  dismissed  to  Plumville  church,  April  8,  1887.  He 
had  served  as  an  elder  here,  according  to  his  ability,  for  thirty-six 
years,  and  left  many  friends  behind  him.  Messrs.  Wilson  and 
Irwin  are  still  with  us,  both  serenely  spending  the  evening  of  life 
after  many  years  of  faithful  service  and  counsel,  as  elders  highly 
esteemed.  Mr.  Irwin  represented  the  Presbytery  of  vSaltsburg  in 
the  General  Assembly  at  Albany,  N.  Y.,  in  1868.  He  was  the 
first  elder  of  this  church  who  has  been  a  member  of  that  high 
court. 

The  eighth  election  resulted  in  the  choice  of  James  R.  Mar- 
shall, Joseph  M.  McGaughey,  Harkley  K.  Marshall  and  William 
Guthrie.  They  were  ordained  and  installed  on  September  7, 1857, 
except  Mr.  Guthrie,  regularly  inducted  into  office  September  12. 

Mr.  H.  K.  Marshall,  a  young  man  in  whose  prudence,  piety, 
and  personal  qualifications  tor  a  leader  in  all  church  work,  the 
people   had    implicit   confidence,  was,   to  the   great  sorrow   of  the 

27 


210  HISTORY    OF    THE 


pastor,  session  and  whole  congregation,  removed  to  the  church  on 
high,  March  5,  1861.     His  memory  is  still  precious  here. 

Mr.  Guthrie  died  March  8,  1875.  His  retiring  disposition, 
united  with  much  gentleness  and  firmness,  and  his  intelligent 
knowledge  of  the  doctrines  and  discipline  of  the  Presbyterian 
church,  and  good  judgment,  made  him  a  good  elder.  Rev.  S.  B. 
Fleming,  Synodical  missionary  of  the  Synod  of  Kansas,  is  married 
to  his  second  daughter,  Emma  E. 

Archibald  Findlcy  and  Samuel  S.  Caldwell,  at  the  ninth  elec- 
tion, July  2,  1867,  were  selected,  and  October  10th  were  regularly 
inducted  into  the  duties  of  the  elder's  office.  They  remain  serving. 
Mr.  Caldwell  was  a  delegate  from  the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning  to 
the  General  Assembly  of  1884  at  Saratoga. 

Mr.  McGaughey  ceased  to  be  a  member  of  this  session  b}^  the 
removal  of  his  membership  to  another  congregation,  December 
23,  1882.  His  zeal,  wisdom  and  devotion  to  the  duties  of  the 
office,  are  well  known  and  remembered  here  by  many  friends. 

The  tenth  election  resulted  in  the  choice  of  Abraham  Good, 
John  W.  Beck  and  William  B.  Kirkpatrick,  who  were  ordained 
and  installed,  April  19,  1879.  Mr.  Wm.  C.  Marshall  was  elected 
with  them,  but  declined  to  be  ordained,  much  to  the  regret  of  both 
session  and  the  congregation. 

Mr.  Kirkpatrick  died  March  16,  1885.  He  was  a  grandson  of 
James  Kirkpatrick,  one  of  the  first  elders  of  this  church,  and  one 
of  a  family  of  great  worth  and  influence  in  the  Presbyterian 
church.  At  his  ordination  he  promised  "  to  study  the  peace,  unity 
and  purity  of  the  church,"  and  shrank  from  no  duty  though  disa- 
greeable in  keeping  these  vows.  His  departure  to  the  better  land 
left  a  vacancy  in  this  session  not  yet  filled.  He  was  a  brother 
beloved. 

At  the  last  election,  Messrs.  Geo.  F.  Curry,  Leroy  O.  Marshall, 
Oscar  E.  Findley  and  Curtis  S.  Marshall  were  chosen  to  the  elder- 
ship.    They  were  ordained  and  installed  February  12,  1888. 

SABBATH    SCHOOLS. 

These  were  early  recognized  here  as  a  power  in  enlightening 
the  minds  of  men  in  the  knowledge  of  the  Word  of  God.  We 
have  a  constitution  of  a  Sabbath  School  preserved  among  the 
papers  of  Abel  Findley  deceased,  dated  September  10,  1826,  and  it 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  211 

was  probably  not   the  first  in  the  bounds  of  this  church.        It  gives 
minute  directions  for  the  management  of  the  school,  e.  g.: 

"Article  6.     The  recess  shall  not  continue  over  ht-^lf  an  hour. 

"Article  7.  The  afternoon  session  shall  begin  with  singing  as  the  morn- 
ing session  ended. 

"Article  13.  During  the  time  of  exercise,  if  any  scholar  has  occasion  to 
withdraw,  he  is  to  ask  leave  of  the  presiding  teacher,  and  leave  his  book  (if  he 
has  any)  in  pledge  with  him  until  his  or  her  return." 

The  importance  of  this  article  appears,  perhaps,  from:  — 

"Article  14.  The  exercises  to  continue  each  session,  one  in  the  forenoon 
and  one  in  the  afternoon,  about  two  hours." 

"The  exercises"  were  "  repeating  questions"  (of  the  Shorter 
Catechism  of  course)  "  scripture  or  psalms,  or  whatever  may  have 
been  committed  to  memory  since  the  last  meeting."  On  one  page 
of  this  little  document,  now  over  sixty-one  years  old,  there  is  a 
heading,  "  Spellers  in  attendance,"  followed  by  six  names,  "  the 
last  at  A.  B.  C." 

This  school  was  organized  in  a  school  house  near  Mr.  Findley's 
residence,  and  doubtless  with  others  like  it  was  merged  into  the 
school  at  the  church  soon  after.  The  officers  of  the  first  day  were 
Joseph  Reed,  President;  A.  Findley  and  John  Calhoun,  Assistants. 

A  list  of  questions,  in  the  handwriting  of  Mr.  Findley,  on  the 
10th  and  11th  chapters  of  Matthew,  closely  written,  in  double 
columns,  filling  a  large  sheet  of  cap  paper,  is  yet  preserved.  In 
discrimination  and  point  of  adaptation  to  bring  out  the  meaning  of 
the  text,  these  questions  are  not  excelled  by  the  question  books  of 
some  ecclesiastical  publishing  houses.  They  are  sound  in  doctrine, 
practical  and  refreshing  in  piety  and  common  sense.  From  that 
time  to  the  present  a  Sabbath  School  has  been  kept  up  in  this 
church,  with  some  winter  vacations,  a  practice  too  common  in  some 
churches  yet.  We  have  records  for  Spetember  30,  1838,  October 
13th  and  January  5,  1834,  and  of  a  Sabbath  here  and  there  until 
May  5,  1861.  April  16,  1848,  William  Kirkpatrick  and  James 
Gourley  were  appointed  superintendents,  John  C.  McComb  and 
A.  Findley,  treasurers.  This  is  the  first  full  list  of  officers  known 
to  be  extant.  William  Kirkpatrick  said,  over  ten  years  ago,  that 
"  this  church  had  not  been  closed  one  Sabbath  for  over  fifty  years." 
It  has  not  been  closed  one  Sabbath  since. 


212  HISTORY    OF    THE 


The  names  of  teachers  given  in  1848  are  R.  L.  McCurdy,  J.  M. 
McGaughey,  W.  M.  Findley,  Benjamin  Irwin,  John  Cochran, 
Catharine  Findley,  Martha  McGaughey,  Martha  J.  Marshall, 
Hannah  Irwin  and  Catharine  Marshall. 

We  have  no  list  of  superintendents.  Generally  members  of  the 
session  appear  to  have  filled  thi^  post  one  year  at  a  time.  Since  the 
lamented  death  of  William  M.  Cochran,  in  the  army  in  1864,  Jas, 
R.  Marshall  faithfully,  wisely  and  punctually  filled  the  office  for 
twenty  years,  and  since  1884  Samuel  S.  Caldwell  has  been  the 
earnest  and  judicious  superintendent  and  is  at  the  present  time.  The 
school  now  numbers  200  members,  taught  in  fifteen  classes.  The 
teachers'  names  are,  J.  T.  Irwin,  James  M.  Kelly,  Abel  A.  Findley, 
Tohn  W.  Beck,  William  W.  Caldwell,  Oscar  E.  Findley,  J.  R. 
Caldwell,  Mrs.  M.  B.  Ritchey,  Mrs.  Jane  E.  Allen,  Mrs.  E.  D. 
Mechlin,  Mrs.  Mary  A.  Smith,  Mrs.  Mary  B.  Mechling,  Mrs. 
Kate  Marshall,  Mrs.  M.  J.  Ormond  and   Miss  R.  E.  F.    Coleman. 

A.  Good  and  J.  T.  Kirkpatrick  are  librarians.  The  Sabbath 
School  Visitor^  Morning  Star^  Snnbeam^  etc.,  are  used  principally 
instead  of  books.  The  Westminster  lesson  leaves,  question  books, 
teacher  and  quarterly  are  used  in  this  school,  and  have  been  for 
years.  According  to  our  understanding  of  the  Presbyterian  order, 
the  government;  of  the  school  is  in  the  hands  of  the  session. 

The  following  named  members  of  this  church  and  Sabbath 
School  became  ministers  of  the  Presbyterian  church,  except  those 
noted:  Revs.  Alexander  S.  Marshall,  pastor,  Marion,  la.;  David  J. 
Irwin,  D.  D.,  pastor,  Ebenezer  and  Clarksburg;  James  H.  Mar- 
shall, pastor.  Concord  and  N.  Butler;  Adam  L.  Wilson,  pastor, 
M.  E:  church,  Bryn  Mawr;  B.  S.  Sloan,  evangelist,  Indiana;  J.  T. 
Gibson,  pastor,  Sharpsbin-g;  S.  B.  Fleming,  Synodical  Missionary, 
Kansas;  Johnston  McGaughey,  H.  M.,  Raton,  New  Mexico; 
Francis  X.  Miron,  pastor,  Earl  Park,  Indiana;  Colbert  M.  Des 
Islets,  Ph.  D.,  stated  supply,  Belvidere,  Nebraska;  Albert  B.  Mar- 
shall, pastor,  East  Liverpool,  Ohio;  John  Park  Barbor,  pastor, 
Lyndon,  Kansas;  David  Brown,  pastor,  Newton,  Iowa;  Lycurgus 
Mechlin,  pastor,  Currie's  Run  and  Elderton ;  Thomas  M.  Findley, 
pastor.  Ninth  Church,  St.  Paul,  Minnesota;  Henry  T.  McClelland, 
Professor  Theology,  Western  Theological  Seminary;  Anderson 
F.  Irwin,  pastor,  Grace  Church,  Peoria,  Illinois;  John  C.  Irwin, 
pastor,    Fullerion,    Nebraska;   Asa    Leard,    pastor,    Farmingdale, 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  213 

Illinois;  Thomas  W.  Leard,  pastor,  Athens,  Illinois;  Robert  E. 
Anderson,  stated  supply,  Owatonna,  Minnesota;  Charles  P.  Cheese- 
man,  pastor,  Long  Run ;  James  M.  McComb,  F.  M.,  Lodiana, 
India;  Adolphus  C.  Good,  F.  M.,  Ogove  River,  W.  Africa;  John 
G.  Touzeau,  F.  M.,  Bogota,  S.  America;  John  C.  Mechlin,  F,  M., 
Salmas,  W.  Persia;  John  C.  Ambrose,  pastor,  Marion. 

Revs.  John  A.  Calhoun  and  Thomas  M.  Wilson  are  deceased. 
Many  others  from  this  school  are  ruling  elders  in  other  churches, 
especially  in  the  Western  States. 

REVIVALS. 

These  appear  on  the  records  we  have,  as  follows:  In  1821  and 
1822,  we  find  22  admitted  on  examination  each  year.  There  were 
seasons  of  ingathering  during  Dr.  Barrett's  pastorate,  as  he  wrote 
to  the  writer  some  years  ago,  but  no  particulars  can  be  found.  In 
1851,  we  find  on  examination,  29,  certificate,  8;  in  1860, 16  on  exam- 
ination, 12  on  certificate;  1866,  30  on  examination,  18  on  certificate; 
1871,  22  on  examination,  5  on  certificate;  1877,  19  on  ■•.examination, 
7  on  certificate.  ^\ 

These  ingatherings  were  seasons  of  God's  special  blessings  on 
the  ordinar}^  means  of  grace,  unattended  by  any  unusual  excite- 
ment; simply  sweet,  solemn,  strengthening  days  of  the  Spirit's 
presence  and  power. 

There  have  been  admissions  by  examination  and  certificate  each 
year  during  the  piesent  pastorate.  The  number  of  members  who 
have  been  enrolled  in  this  church  cannot  now  be  ascertained.  All 
the  records  we  have  up  to  the  eighth  year  of  Dr.  Barrett's  pastor- 
ate, 1835,  are  loose  fragmentary  papers,  preserved  by  the  late  Geo. 
McComb,  some  of  them  without  intelligible  headings,  and  others 
wanting  dates.  But  from  the  records  we  have,  we  find  admitted 
under  Dr.  Barrett,  59;  Mr.  Mason,  32;  Mr.  Forbes,  68,  on  examin- 
ation, total  276  to  1856.  The  roll  of  certified  members  to  this  time 
is  confused,  the  correct  number  cannot  now  be  given.  Since  1855, 
573  names  have  been  enrolled,  362  of  them  on  profession  of  faith. 
Doubtless  over  1,000  communing  members  have  been  enrolled. 
Adults  baptized  since  1855,  30,  infants  353;  present  membership 
225;  communicants  deceased  in  the  same  time  105.  Death  claimed 
them  from  the  blooming  youth  of  less  than  fifteen  summers  to  a 
large  number  over  four  score.       One  aged  mother  in    Israel,  Mrs. 


2I4  HISTORY    OF    Tire 


Jane  Caldwell,  died,  November  2,  1879,  aged  ninety-three,  and: 
Mrs.  Susan  Barnett,  April  8,  1879,  aged  ninety -five.  The  trend 
of  our  young  people  toward  the  cities  and  the  west  has  been  for 
years  discouragingly  reducing  our  membership.  Over  thirty  have 
left  us  as  ministers,  and  frequently  the  minister  took  with  him  a- 
wife  from  our  membership, 

CHOIR. 

The  choir  was  organized  in  1883.  Mr.  Archibald  Findley  was 
chosen  leader,  and  very  acceptably  filled  that  position  until  1886^ 
when  by  weight  of  increasing  years  he  felt  impelled  to  resign  the 
leadership  of  sacred  song  in  this  church,  which  he  had  held  for 
nearly  fifty  years.  The  congregation  owes  him  a  debt  of  gratitude 
for  the  free  service  of  his  rich  and  cultured  voice.  As  a  slight 
token  of  remembrance  the  choir  and  others  presented  him  with  a 
chair  at  his  resignation. 

The  following  have  been  members  of  the  choir:  Archibald 
Findley,  Mrs.  Martha  E.  Cochran,  John  Cochran,  Miss  M.  A. 
Kirkpatrick,  William  W.  W.  Caldwell,  Miss  M.  W.  Kirkpatrick,. 
D.  D.  Marshall,  Jvliss  E.  R.  Kirkpatrick,  David  Stutchell,  Mrs. 
Lucinda  Kells,  James  L.  Cochran,  Miss  M.  A.  Marshall,  William 
M.  Cochran,  Mis^  Sarah  Cochran,  J.  T.  Kirkpatrick,  Miss  Ivlaggie 
M.  Guthrie,  Samuel  Cochran,  Miss  Mary  Beck,  Abel  A.  Findley, 
Miss  Elvira  Cochran,  W.  C.  Neal,  Miss  E.  C.  Marshall,  James  D, 
Guthrie,  Miss  M.  J.  McGaughey,  William  W.  Lam,  Miss  Maggie 
J.  Irwin,  Alonzo  K,  Good,  Miss  Euphrasia  P.  Marshall,  J.  C. 
McGaughey,  Miss  N.  M.  C.  Irwin,  Adolphus  C.  Good,  Miss 
Margaret  N.  Beck,  L.  J.  McGaughey,  Miss  E.  C.  B.  Irwin,  S.  M. 
Caldwell,  Miss  M.  E.  Findley,  Miss  R.  E.  Findley,  Miss  Flora  J. 
Caldwell,  Miss  Sarah  E.  Beck,  Miss  A.  M.  McGaughey,  Miss 
Martha  Martin,  Miss  Sallie  E,  Williams,  Miss  Sarah  Cline,  Miss 
Mary  Cline,  Miss  Ella  McGaughey,  Miss  Lizzie  McCandless, 
Miss  R.  E.  F.  Coleman,  Miss  M.  E.  Kelly,  Miss  Eva  L.  Guthrie, 
Miss  Sarah  I.  McGaughey,  Miss  M.  B.  Marshall,  Miss  Mary  M. 
Cochran,  Miss  Belle  Jones. 

The  following  compose  the  present  choir:  John  W.  Beck, 
Leader,  Mrs.  Jane  E.  Allen,  Oscar  E.  Findley,  Miss  Ella  V.  Mar- 
tin, Camden  C.  Cochran,  Miss  Mary  L.Jewell,  Joseph  L.  Stutchell, 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING. 


215 


Miss  Mary  B.  Caldwell,  W.  H.  Kelly,  Miss  Irene  E.  Mechlin, 
Elmer  E.  Good,  Miss  Sadie  A.  Adams,  Miss  Flora  J.  McGaughey, 
Eva  St.  Clair  Smith,  organist,  Miss  Clara  E.  Stutchell,  Miss  Mary 
E.  Mechlin,  Miss  Laura  Mechlin,  assistant  organists. 

INCORPORATION. 

A  charter  was  obtained  from  the  Court  of  Armstrong  county 
in  1857.  Jacob  B.  Ouyer,  J.  R.  Crouch,  M.  D.,  and  John  Mar- 
shall were  appointed  trustees  by  the  Court,  The  following  are  the 
names  of  the  trustees  elected  since: 


1858. 

1859. 
1860. 
1861. 
1862. 
1863. 
1864. 
1865. 
1866. 
1867. 

1868. 

1869. 
1870. 
1871. 


Years. 

J.  M.  McGaughey  3 

J.  R.  Marshall 3 

Archibald  Find  ley 1 

W.  W.  CaldweU , 3 

A.  A.  Findley 3 

John  Marshall 3 

Joseph  T.  Irwin  3 

Wm.  M.  Cochran 3 

W.  W.  Caldwell 3 

JohnW.  Beck 3 

John  M.  Marshall 3 

S.  S.  Caldwell 3 

A.  A.  Findley  3 

J.  T.  Irwin 2 

J.  T.  Kirkpatrick 1 

James  Guthrie 3 

Abraham  Good 3 

J   T.  Kirkpatrick 3 


Years, 

1872.  David  L.  Marshall 3 

1873.  W.W.Caldwell 3 

1874.  J.  C.  McGaughey 8 

1875.  A.  A.  Marshall 8 

1876.  Wm.  B.  Kirkpatrick 3 

1876.  James  M.Kelly 1 

1877.  D.  L.  Marshall...... 3 

1878.  J.  W.  Marshall 3 

1879.  David  Stuchell 8 

1880.  D.  L.  Marshall 8 

1881.  J.  T.  Kirkpatrick 8 

1882.  J.T.Irwin..., , 3 

1883.  J.  M.  Kellv 3 

1884.  D.  Stuchell ,.  3 

1885.  W.  H.Allen 3 

1886.  J.  M.  Kelly 3 

1887.  John  R.  Barnard 8 


TREASURERS. 


The  following  have  been  Treasurers  under  the  charter:  H.  K. 
Marshall,  1857  and  1860;  J,  B.  Guyer,  1858,  1863  to  1866;  J.  H. 
Marshall,  1859;  James  P.  Marshall,  1861  and  1862,  and  from  1867 
to  1871,  and  from  1877  to  1882;  J.  M.  McGaughey,  1872  to  1876; 
D.  L.  Marshall,  1883  to  1887. 

The  venerable  John  McGaughey,  who  has  been  a  member  oi 
this  church  since  1819,  was  Treasurer  during  the  pastorate  of  Mr. 
Mason,  and  Mr.  Watson  S.  Marshall  several  years  about  the  begin- 
ning of  the  present  pastorate.  There  were  others  previous,  whose 
names  cannot  be  ascertained. 


216  HISTORY    OF    THE 


MISSIONARY     WORK. 

A  Ladies'  Foreign  Missionary  Society  was  organized  in  1877, 
and  is  still  conducted  with  an  energy  and  zeal  which  contribute 
much  to  the  benevolent  spirit  and  the  increase  of  funds  to  this 
Board  from  this  congregation.  The  present  officers  are  Mrs.  Kate 
Marshall,  President;  Mrs.  M.  J.  Ormond,  Vice  President;  Mrs.  E. 
D.  Mechlin,  Secretary;  Mrs.  Jane  E.  Allen,  Corresponding  Secre- 
tary; Miss  Mary  C.  Mechlin,  Treasurer. 

A  children's  band  was  well  conducted  for  years  Vjy  Mrs.  M.  B. 
Ritchey  and  Miss  Nancy  J.  Calwell,  which  grew  into  the  Young 
Ladies'  Home  Mission  Society.  This  society  was  organized  in 
1883,  and  has  labored  commendably  to  increase  the  general  fund  of 
the  Board,  besides  making  special  contributions  of  clothing,  etc.,  to 
the  aid  of  schools  in  Utah  and  the  poor  children  of  Freedmen  in  the 
South,  especially  those  in  charge  of  Mrs.  S.  J.  Neil  in  Amelia 
county,  Virginia.  It  is  regretted  that  not  all  of  the  ladies  of  the 
church  are  members  of  these  societies.  Officers  for  the  present 
year:  Mrs.  Kate  Marshall,  President;  Miss  Irene  E.  Mechlin,  Sec- 
retary; Miss- Belle  Jones,  Treasurer. 

A  WEEKLY  PRAYER  MEETING 

Has  been  held  regularly  on  Wednesday  evening  since  1856. 
The  attendance  has  been  good  for  seasons,  and  the  interest  tender 
and  refreshing,  but  by  too  many  it  has  not  been  esteemed,  as  it 
surely  is,  a  very  valuable  means  of  grace,  a  power  both  with  God 
and  man.  Meetings  for  a  time  have  been  held  in  school  houses 
and  private  homes,  which  have  been  productive  of  much  spiritual 
refreshment  to  them  who  attended. 

TEMPERANCE 

Was  discussed  in  this  church  as  early  as  1830,  if  not  sooner. 
No  records  of  the  first  organization  are  now  known  to  be  in  exist- 
ance.  At  the  first  meeting  only  four  or  five  were  present,  but  not 
discouraged,  they  appointed  another  meeting,  and  each  one  pledged 
himself  to  bring  another  with  him  to  it.  All  did  so;  some  brought 
two.  A  society  was  organized,  which  was  changed  to  meet  the 
phase,  the  advocacy  of  the  cause,  from  time  to  time,  assumed,  from 
total  abstinence  to  the  W.  C.  T.  U.,  whose  mfluence  still  lives  and 
eavens.     They  met  with  opposition.     Whisky  was  not  so  crooked 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  217 

then  as  now.  Many  refused  "  to  sign  away  their  liberty,"  but  as 
one  of  them  said, "  they  felt  at  the  same  time  they  would  feel  better 
if  they  signed  the  pledge."  Most  of  them  soon  did  so,  and  God 
has  followed  their  efforts  with  his  blessing  upon  their  children  and 
their  grand  children.  This  cause,  all  these  years,  has  had  many 
earnest  advocates  in  the  church.  Under  the  lead  of  Mrs.  E.  J. 
Irwin,  Mrs.  M.  E.  Cochran,  and  other  ladies  of  this  church  and 
other  churches  here,  a  vigorous  society  of  the  W.  C.  T.  U.  and 
also  a  Y.  W.  C.  T.  U.  ai'e  sustained  and  doing  much  good.  One 
of  these  ladies,  Mrs.  W.  S.  Mechlin,  is  president  of  the  county 
organization. 


218  HISTORY    OF    THE 


HARMONY. 


BY    REV.    B.    S.    SI.OAN. 


orctAnization  and  early  history. 

Harmony  church  is  situated  about  nine  miles  east  of  Indiana, 
Indiana  county,  Pa.  It  was  the  oldest  church  in  the  northern  part 
of  Redstone  Presbytery,  except  Ebenezer  and  Bethel.  It  was 
organized  by  that  Presbytery  in  the  year  1806,  three  years  after  the 
formation  of  the  county  of  Indiana  and  the  year  the  town  of 
Indiana  was  laid  out. 

The  first  settlers  within  the  bounds  of  this  congregation  were 
chiefly  from  eastern  Pennsylvania  and  New  Jersey,  and  the  rest 
from  Scotland,  Ireland,  Germany  and  Wales.  The  names  of  these 
were  as  follows:  John  Evans,  David  Fulton,  Thomas  Barr,  James 
Dunwoody,  John  Huston,  Chas.  Gibson,  James  Stewart.  Thos. 
Lapsley,  Robt.  Johnston,  Andrew  Wilkie,  Jos.  and  Thomas 
Erskine,  Jas.  and  John  Lydick,  Isaac  Griffith,  Ad.  Carson,  Alex, 
and  Samuel  Ferguson,  John  Coleman,  Peter  Gordon,  Matthew 
Ray,  Samuel  Moorhead,  Wm.  Fowler,  Thos.  Craven,  Alex.  Tel- 
ford and  John  Martin.  Three  of  the  sons  of  the  last  named  were 
elders  in  this  and  other  churches. 

Some  of  these  persons  feeling  the  necessity  and  desiring  the 
privilege  of  religi®us  ordinances,  commissioned  one  of  their  num- 
ber, Thos.  Barr,  to  ask  the  occasional  services  of  Rev.  Joseph  Hen- 
derson, minister  at  Bethel  and  Ebenezer,  to  which  some  of  these 
belonged,  but  which  churches  were  inconvenient  to  reach  on 
account  of  distance.     Mr.  Henderson  readily  consented  to  preach 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNIXG.  219 

once  each  month,  on  Friday  evening,  so  as  to  return  to  his  regu- 
lar charge  on  the  Sabbath.  He  organized  the  church  with  ten 
members.  Mr.  Henderson  gave  the  church  its  name,  and  Mr. 
Barr  relates,  "  that  it  was  undeserving  of  the  name  at  that  time, 
yet  it  was  as  a  little  oil  cast  upon  the  troubled  waters."  (Its  life 
has  not  been  a  very  harmonious  one.)  Three  years  after  its  organ- 
ization it  had  only  doubled  its  membership. 

In  these  years  the  famous  Kentucky  revivals  took  place  and 
their  influence  extended  to  this  region.  Prayer-meetings  were  held 
and  effects  similar  to  those  recorded  in  other  places,  took  place  here. 
There  were  doubts  in  the  minds  of  many  whether  this  was  the 
genuine  woi-k  of  the  Holy  Spirit,  or  not,  but  great  awe  and 
solemnity  pervaded  the  meetings. 

GROUNDS. 

In  the  year  1821  a  grant  of  about  three  acres  and  thirteen 
perches  of  land  was  obtained  from  Mr.  Thomas  Bradford,  of 
Philadelphia.  The  deed  for  the  same  was  made  to  Thos.  B. 
Morgan,  Jas.  Dunwoody,  Jas.  Lapsley  and  David  Fulton,  trustees, 
for  the  consideration  of  one  dollar,  on  which  were  the  school  house, 
church  and  cemetery. 

In  1861  an  additional  lot  of  ground  adjoining  the  church  lot, 
containing  one  acre  and  twenty-six  perches,  was  purchased  from 
Mary  Fairchild,  of  Boston,  Mass.,  for  the  sum  of  $25,  and  made 
over  by  deed  to  Dr.  Thos.  McMuUen,  Jas.  M.  Barr,  Geo.  Ray, 
Jas.  Hadden  and  Wm.  Martin,  trustees,  and  to  their  successors  in 
office. 

In  1883,  a  half-acre  lot  was  purchased  in  the  village  of  Green- 
ville, one  mile  from  the  old  ground  (which  the  congregation  still 
holds)  and  on  it  was  erected  a  new  church  building. 

CHURCH    BUILDINGS. 

Harmony  church  first  worshiped  under  the  oaks  in  one  of 
"  God's  first  temples."  After  a  time  they  built  a  little  log  school 
house  and  held  services  therein.  Some  time  after  a  large  tent  was 
erected  and  generally  well  filled,  for  people  then  came  long  dis- 
tances to  church.  About  1820  a  log  church  was  built  which  served 
till  1844,  when  a  large  frame  church  took  its  place.  It  was  in 
size  forty  by  fifty-five  feet,  costing  seven  or  eight  hundred   dollars 


220  HISTORY    OF    THE 


at  that  time.  In  1883  the  present  frame  church  was  built  in  the 
village  of  Greenville,  costing  over  $4,000;  size,  fifty-eight  by 
thirty-eight  feet. 

PASTORS    AND    STATED    SUPPLIES. 

Rev.  Joseph  Henderson  was  supply  from  1806  to  1809.  Rev. 
Tames  Galbraith,  a  son-in-law  of  Mr.  Henderson,  was  the  first 
pastor  from  1809  to  1816.  Rev.  David  Barclay  and  others,  then 
supplied  the  church  during  a  vacancy  of  ten  years.  Rev.  J.  H. 
Kirkpatrick,  of  Armstrong  county,  became  the  second  pastor  from 
1826  to  1856.  Rev.  John  Rice,  a  lively  Scotchman,  of  the 
Reformed  church,  was  third  pastor  from  1867  to  1870,  for  half 
time.  Rev.  B.  Shields  Sloan,  from  1872  to  1882,  became  stated 
supply  the  first  two  years  and  a  half,  and  then  was  installed  the 
fifth  pastor.  Since  the  above  date  occasional  supplies  have  been 
appointed  by  Presbytery.  In  addition  to  these  Mr.  Wm.  T.  Gar- 
roway  was  stated  supply  for  six  months  and  Rev.  F.  Orr  for  three 
months.  Rev.  J.  McPherrin  supplied  from  March,  1884  to  May, 
1885.  In  1886,  Rev.  W.  W.  Woodend,  D.  D.,  supplied  for  six 
months.     The  church  is  without  a  pastor  at  this  date. 

RULING    ELDERS. 

At  the  organization  of  the  church  in  1806,  the  ruling  elders 
were  Charles  Gibson,  Alex.  Telford  and  Isaac  Griffith.  We  find 
no  sessional  records  for  this  church  from  its  beginning  till  the  end 
of  forty-two  years. 

In  1833,  (we  learn  from  another  source,)  the  elders  were  John 
McFeaters,  John  Huston,  Sr.,  Robt.  Johnston,  Isaac  Hamilton, 
Tames  McFeaters  and  Robert  T.  Allison. 

In  1848,  Wm.  Evans,  Samuel  H.  Johnston,  John  W.  Huston 
and  Robert  C.  Martin  were  ordained  and  installed  as  elders.  In 
1860,  Mr.  Patrick  Lj^dick  was  added  to  the  session. 

On  the  27th  of  February,  1874,  Mr.  James  M.  Dickey,  Joseph 
Lida  and  James  T.  Dresser  were  ordained  as  ruling  elders. 

On  July  15,  1876,  Mr.  Samuel  S.  Gibson,  Samuel  Rugh,  John 
O'Neil  and  Alexander  Stuchell  were  ordained. 

On  November  21,  1885,  the  "rotary  system"  being  adopted, 
Mr.  John  O'Neil  and  Alexander   Stuchell  were   re-elected;  Calvin 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  221 

S.  Gibson,  Elmer  E.  Hadden  and  James  C.  Fair  were  elected  and 
ordained,  and  all  were  installed. 

On  March  6,  1887,  Mr.  James  E.  Ray  was  added  to  the  session. 

GROWTH    OF    THE    CHURCH. 

This  was  the  mother  church  of  this  region  and  from  her  many 
other  churches  have  sprung  up.  Her  membership  never  was  very 
large.  The  following  will  serve  as  an  exhibit  of  alternate  growth 
and  decline:  In  1806  there  were  10  members;  in  1809,  20;  in 
1833,  106;  in  1848,  87;  in  1856,  86;  in  1864, 123;  in  1872,  140; 
in  1875,  150;  in  1887,  100. 

This  church  has  seen  many  changes  and  has  come  up  through 
great  tribulation.  But  she  has  done  a  good  work  that  the  Master 
will  own  and  reward  at  last. 


222  HISTORY    OF    THE 


HOMER. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY    REV.    ROBERT    H.    FULTON, 


■nTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


The  early  settlers  of  the  neighborhood  were  principally  Scotch- 
Irish.  Among  them  one  John  Allison  opened  up  a  part  of  the 
country  now  occupied  by  the  town.  The  land  was  owned 
previously  by  a  Mr.  Evans.  This  was  in  "the  latter  part  of  the 
last  century.  About  this  time  other  openings  were  made  by 
Messrs.  McKissin,  McConaugey,  Hamilton,  Houston  and  a  few 
others.  The  names  of  some  of  these  families  connect  themselves 
with  times  of  darkness  and  scenes  of  fire  and  blood  in  the  mother 
country,  of  which  we  cannot  here  speak;  suffice  it  to  say,  they 
loved  pure  religion  more  than  the  endearments  of  home;  the}" 
feared  less  the  perils  of  the  wilderness  than  the  power  of  Satan's 
emmissaries. 

Among  these  were  those  of  other  nationalities,  the  Welsh  and 
the  Germans,  who,  with  like  motives,  shared  the  toils  and  enjoy- 
ments of  Freedom's  home.  The  early  settlers  were  largely  of  the 
Presbyterian  faith  and  proclivity.  Their  places  of  worship  were, 
for  the  greater  part,  Indiana  and  Bethel.  As  they  grew  in  num- 
bers, desire  and  purpose  were  formed  to  procure  church  privileges 
near  their  homes.  Other  denominations,  the  M.  E.,  the  U.  P.,  the 
Evangelical  Lutheran,  a  very  few  of  the  Baptist  ("Christian"), 
had  already  effected  their  several  organizations. 

Desirous  of  having  divine  worship  according  to  the  teachings 
of  their  fathers,  ihe  Presbyterians,  in  the  spring  of  1870,  made 
their  first  arrangements  for  preaching  in  the  town,  (Homer  City.) 
Through  the  efforts    of    G.   A.    Ogden,  J.   P.   Douthett.   W.  H. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  223 

Stanley  and  others,  the  services  of  Rev.  D.  G.  Robinson,  then 
preaching  at  Black  Lick,  were  procured.  Results  were  so 
encouraging  that  as  early  as  May,  following,  a  meeting  was  called 
in  the  town  hall  for  making  more  permanent  arrangements.  They 
succeeded  in  raising  $300  toward  the  support  of  the  gospel,  and 
procured  the  services  of  Rev.  D.  G.  Robinson  for  one-half  time. 
In  the  desire  to  have  a  church  home,  a  committee  consisting  of  Dr. 
John  Evans,  Rees  R.  Ellis  and  Joseph  Griffith  was  appointed  to 
petition  Presbytery  for  a  church  organization.  Said  petition  was 
presented  to  the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning  met  at  Marion,  Pa.,  and 
was  favorably  received.  By  appointment  of  Presbytery,  a  com- 
mittee consisting  of  Rev.  A.  McElwain,  Rev.  Franklin  Orr  and 
€lder  W.  B.  Marshall,  met  at  Homer  City,  July  21,  1870,  and 
organized  a  church  with  the  following  members,  viz:  John 
McClain,  Joseph  Griffith,  Wm.  H.  Stanley,  Mrs.  Rachel  Stanley, 
J.  M.  Watt,  Mrs.  Jane  Watt,  Miss  M.  J.  Watt,  Dr.  John  Evans, 
Mrs.  Bell  Evans,  John  Barkley,  Mrs.  Margaret  Barkley,  Miss 
Mattie  Barkley,  John  A.  Barkley,  Joseph  Dauthett,  Mrs.  Allen  R. 
Dauthett,  Walter  B.  George,  Mrs.  Nancy  J.  George,  Reese  R, 
Ellis,  Mrs.  Bell  Ellis,  Jessie  Griffith,  Mrs.  Susannah  Griffith,  Miss 
L.  E.  Griffith,  Miss  Susan  Griffith,  Mrs.  Elizabeth  Peddicord  and, 
on  examination,  Mr.  G.  H.  Ogden.  Messrs.  Joseph  Griffith,  Joseph 
Dauthett  and  John  Barkley  were  elected  and  ordained  ruling  elders. 
With  characteristic  zeal,  these  members,  on  the  13th  of  the  fol- 
lowing month  met  and  determined  "to  rise  and  build."  Sufficient 
money  was  pi-ocured,  a  site  chosen  and  ground  broken  immediately. 
By  unexpected  delays,  caused  chiefly  by  the  sudden  death  of  their 
pastor,  the  house  was  not  made  ready  for  occupancy  until  the 
spring  of  1873.  The  Rev.  D.  G.  Robinson  died  April  3,  1873. 
The  congregation  met  April  13,  1873,  and  adopted  the  following 
minute: 

"  Whereas,  It  hath  pleased  a  Divine  and  overruling  Providence  to  call 
from  his  toils  and  trials  below,  to  his  triumphs  above,  the  Rev.  D.  G.  Robin- 
son, who  has  supplied  this  church  since  its  organization;  therefore, 

'■'Resolved,  That  we  bow  with  submission  to  our  heavenly  Father's  will, 
knowing  that  he  afflicteth  not  willingly,  and  that  whatsoever  he  doeth  is  for 
the  good  of  his  people;  and, 

"  Resolved,  That  we  tender  our  heartfelt  sympathy  to  his  bereaved  wife 
and  parents  for  their  irreparable  loss." 


224  HISTORY    OF    THE 


Mr.  Robinson  was  an  earnest  and  faithful  minister,  and  in  every 
sense  of  the  word,  a  good  man. 

The  neat  and  commodious  church  building,  as  it  now  stands, 
was  dedicated  to  the  worship  of  God,  free  of  debt,  June  15,  1873. 
The  total  cost  was  about  $2,500.  The  dedicatory  services  were 
conducted  by  Rev.  J.  St.  Clair  Stuchell,  who  also,  in  the  prime  of 
life,  and  in  the  midst  of  encouraging  labors,  has  been  called  to  his 
reward. 

At  the  time  of  the  dedication  of  the  church  there  had  been 
received  in  addition  to  the  original  membership,  twenty-three  on 
certificate  and  eleven  on  examination,  making  in  all  fifty-nine. 
For  about  one  year  after  the  death  of  Mr.  Robinson,  the  church 
obtained  supplies  as  often  as  possible.  During  this  time  eight 
members  more  were  added  on  certificate. 

On  April  4,  1874,  a  call  was  made  out  for  the  services  of  Rev. 
John  S.  Axtell,  for  one  half  his  time.  It  was  accepted  by  him, 
and  the  church  was  transferred  to  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville  to 
form  a  union  with  the  church  at  Black  Lick.  The  pastor  elect 
was  ordained  and  installed  by  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville  at 
Black  Lick,  July  28,  1874,  and  on  the  evening  of  same  day,  was 
installed  by  a  committee  of  Presbytery  over  the  church  at  Homer 
City. 

On  March  21,  1875,  Walter  B.  George  and  Reese  R.  Ellis  were 
chosen  and  ordained  ruling  elders.  During  the  pastorate  of  Mr. 
Axtell  there  were  received  on  certificate  eighteen,  and  on  exami- 
nation twenty-five.  Part  of  this  addition  was  the  fruit  of  a  series 
of  revival  meetings  held  in  continuance  with  the  week  of  prayer. 

In  April,  1876,  the  pastoral  relation  at  Black  Lick  was  dis- 
solved and  this  church  was  transferred  to  the  Presbytery  of  Kit- 
tanning. 

Up  to  this  time  there  have  been  connected  with  this  church  one 
hundred  and  twelve  members.  In  1875  there  was  reported  $500 
for  pastoral  support,  $38.50  for  the  Boards  of  the  church,  and 
$169.29  for  miscellaneous  objects. 

The  Sabbath  School  was  organized  in  1874,  and  reported  in 
1875  a  membership  of  ninety.  In  1873,  Hon.  Isaac  M.  Watt  and 
Miss  Maggie  Wallace,  and  in  1874,  Mr.  Richard  B.  Allen  and 
Mr§.  Jane  Phillips  were  removed  by  death.  Some  were  removed 
by  letter. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  225 

On  October  17,  1877,  Mr.  Axtell  was  released  from  the 
pastoral  charge  of  Homer. 

Rev.  T.  R.  Ewing,  Principal  of  lilairsville  Ladies'  Seminary, 
became  stated  supply  in  November,  1878,  continuing  until  the 
fall  of  1879.  In  the  interval  the  church  had  Presbyterial 
and  other  supplies  as  they  could  be  obtained.  Mr.  E  wing's  engage- 
ment with  the  congregation  terminated  in  the  fall  of  1879,  when 
the  church  passed  through  another  period  ol  irregular  supply  until 
in  April,  1880,  the  Rev.  John  Gourley  was  called  to  the  pas- 
torate. Mr.  Gourley  was  already  pastor  of  Bethel  church,  and 
in  connection  with  it  had  been  serving  the  church  of  Black 
Lick.  Accepting  the  call  to  Homer,  this  church  and  Bethel 
became  united  under  one  pastorate,  Bethel  being  allowed  two- 
thirds  of  his  time. 

By  permission  of  Presbytery  the  call  was  held  for  one  year, 
and  April  27,  1881,  was  accepted.  Mr.  Gourley  was  installed 
June  2,  1881.  This  pastorate  was  continued  with  profit  and  bless- 
ing to  the  people  until  Junt  26,  1883,  when  Mr.  Gourley  was 
released,  but  remained  on  the  field  as  supply  until  August  1,  1883. 

In  July,  1883,  the  church  extended  a  call  to  the  Rev.  J.  H. 
Bausman,  who  had  been  ordained  as  an  evangelist  by  the  Presby- 
tery of  Washington  at  Wheeling,  April,  1883,  The  call  was  held 
by  permission  of  Presbytery  and  accepted  at  its  fall  meeting  held 
at  Marion.  This  call  was  for  half  time.  Bethel  applying  for  the 
other  half.  Mr.  Bausman  was  installed  January  31,  1884.  Fol- 
lowing are  the  changes  in  the  eldership  since  1876.  Reese  R. 
Ellis  was  dismissed  (place  not  mentioned)  December  1,  1880. 
John  A.  Barkley  died  June  16,  1885.  On  June  1,  1881,  Messrs. 
Geo.  H.  Ogden,  Jno.  P.  St.  Clair  and  James  S.  Flickinger  were 
ordained  and  installed  ruling  elders. 

Since  its  organization  the  church  has  received  into  its  com- 
munion on  certificate  75,  and  on  examination,  lOJ .  The  roll  of 
membership  now  calling  for  110  has  perhaps  a  few  more  than 
could  now  be  found  within  the  bounds.  There  have  been  three 
periods  of  ingathering  that  may  be  called  large  if  the  circumstances 
of  the  field  be  taken  into  consideration,  there  being  no  considerable 
population  about  the  village  from  which  it  can  hope  to  draw  mem- 
bers or  strength. 


29 


22(5  HISTORY    OF    THE 


In  February,  1875,  under  the  ministry  of  Rev.  John  wS.  Axtell, 
and  during  a  series  of  meetings  following  the  week  of  prayer, 
seventeen  persons  professed  their  faith  in  Christ  for  the  first  time. 
During  the  ministry  of  J.  H.  Bausman,  in  the  winter  of  1884, 
seventeen  professed  their  faith  at  one  time.  In  February,  1885, 
twent}'  persons  were  received.  It  is  written  that  most  of  these 
have  remained  faithful,  but  that  some  have  returned  to  the  world. 
The  writer  is  disposed  at  this  point  to  make  the  following  com- 
ment: that  being  personally  acquainted  with  about  all  of  the  min- 
isters mentioned  in  the  foregoing,  he  can  unite  his  own  with  the 
willing  testimony  of  all  the  people  in  evidence  of  the  high  attain- 
ments, the  good  and  faithful  qualities  of  those  who,  in  the  provi- 
dence of  God,  were  called  to  be  overseers  of  this  flock;  also,  that 
the  frequent  change  of  jjastorates  is  a  matter  for  serious  consider- 
ation on  the  part  of  both  pastor  and  people  ^s  being  detrimental  to 
the  spirituality  and  threatening  to  the  future,  prospects  of  a  church 
thus  subjected.  Mr.  Bausman  was  released  fi^om  his  charge,  April 
27,  1887.  The  church  then  received  supplies  in  connection  with 
Bethel  lor  six  months. 

In  September,  1887,  the  Rev.  R.  H.  Fulton,  by  invitation, 
preached  on  the  first  two  Sabbaths  of  the  month  at  Bethel  and 
Homer.  A  unanimous  call  from  each  of  the  churches  was  then 
presented  for  the  pastoral  services  of  Mr.  Fulton.  Having  signified 
his  willingness  to  accept,  his  installation  took  place  January  31, 
1888,  at  each  church.  The  salary  offered  by  each  congregation  is 
$500.  Mr.  Fulton  was  licensed  to  preach  the  gospel  by  the  Pres- 
bytery of  Blairsville,  April,  1876,  during  his  term  at  the  Western 
Theological  Seminary,  at  Allegheny,  and  was  ordained  by  the 
Presbytery  of  Pittsburg,  May  7,  1877.  Thus  far  in  our  work 
here,  the  attendance  on  the  part  of  the  people  has  been  very 
faithful.  Sabbath  schoools  are  well  filled  up  and  in  regular  session 
every  Sabbath  in  connection  with  the  preaching  service.  The 
school  of  Homer  enrolls  sixty  pupils,  and  Bethel  considerably  more 
than  100.  Providence  seems  to  be  smiling  upon  our  efforts,  for  the 
people  are  of  one  mind  and  one  heart.  "  Thou  hast  brought  a 
vine  out  of  Egypt;  thou  hast  cast  out  the  heathen  and  planted  it; 
the  hills  were  covered  with  the  shadow  of  it  and  the  boughs 
thereof  were  like  the  goodly  cedars."  And  may  the  prophecy 
continue  to  be  fulfilled  with  respect  to  this  portion  of  God's  vine- 
yard, is  the  prayer  of  his  servant. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNIXG.  227 


INDIANA. 


TITTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY    REV.    D.    HALL,  D.    D. 


ORGANIZATION. 

The  date  of  organization  is  not  known.  Indiana  county  was 
organized  in  1806,  but  there  was  no  stated  preaching  in  the  county 
seat  at  that  time.  From  1800  to  1806  there  were  occasional  sup- 
plies furnished  by  the  Presbytery  of  Redstone.  The  people 
assembled  in  the  woods,  and  the  hai^dy  missionary  spoke  to  them 
from  a  rough  platform  erected  under  the  open  sky.  Rev.  Joseph 
W.  Henderson  was  the  first  stated  pastor  in  the  county,  and  the 
Presbyterian  church  of  Indiana  was  organized  by  him,  it  is  thought, 
in  1807.  After  the  organization  Mi'.  Henderson  preached  as  stated 
supply  one-third  of  his  time  for  one  year.  The  names  of  the 
original  members  are  not  on  record.  They  were  few,  and  none  of 
them  survive  at  this  date.  At  the  time  of  the  organization  services 
were  generally  held  in  the  county  jail,  but  from  the  erection  of  the 
court  house  in  1809,  it  was  occupied  as  a  place  of  public  worship 
by  all  denominations  having  preaching  at  Indiana  till  1826-7,  when 
houses  of  worship  were  erected. 

HOUSES    OF    WORSHIP. 

The  entire  square  on  which  the  Presbyterian,  United  Presby- 
terian and  Lutheran  churches  now  stand  was  donated  to  the  town 
tor  church  purposes  by  the  Clymer  family  of  Eastern  Pennsylvania, 
who  owned  much  land  in  the  county.  Much  of  this  ground,  so 
generously  and  wisely  donated,  was  afterwards  sold  to  private  par- 
ties, and  is  now  occupied   by  handsome  residences.       On  the  land 


228  HISTORY    OF    THE 


thus  acquired  the  old  brick  house,  which  gave  place  to  the  present 
commodious  building,  was  erected  in  1827.  The  present  house  was 
built  in  1858.  It  is  of  brick,  in  the  Doric  order  of  architecture.  Its 
length  is  eighty-five  feet,  and  its  breadth  fifty-six  feet.  The  base- 
ment has  a  lecture  room,  Bible  class  i"oom  and  a  separate  room  for 
the  primary  department  of  the  Sabbath  School,  with  vestibule  and 
cloak  room.  The  audience  room  is  twenty-five  feet  in  hight,  with 
sittings  for  about  650  people.  It  has  lately  been  renovated  with 
cathedral  glass  windows,  new  frescoing,  etc.,  at  a  cost  of  $1,800,  and 
a  new  pipe  organ  in  place,  at  a  cost  of  $2,000.  The  original  cost 
of  the  building  was  about  $12,000.  It  was  dedicated,  October  24, 
1858.  The  pastor.  Rev.  Dr.  Andrew  McElwain,  now  of  Phila- 
delphia, read  a  historical  sketch  of  the  church.  The  late  Rev.  Dr. 
M.  VV,  Jacobus  preached  in  the  morning  from  Philippians,  2: 
15-16,  "  That  ye  may  be  blameless  and  harmless,  the  sons  of  God 
without  rebuke,"  etc.  The  Rev.  Dr.  David  McKinney  preached  in 
the  evening  from  I.  Cor.  3:  23,  "And  ye  are  Christ's."  Rev.  Drs. 
Kirkpatrick  and  McClung,  with  Revs.  James  Montgomery  and 
James  A.  Ewing,  of  Clarion,  William  F.  Hamilton,  of  Uniontown, 
and  John  Stark,  of  Armstrong  county,  Pa.,  participated  m  the 
services. 

PASTORS    AND    STATED    SUPPLIES. 

Rev.  Joseph  W.  Henderson  was  stated  supply  for  one-third  of 
his  time  during  the  year  1807.  The  Revs.  George  Hill,  Samuel 
Porter,  Thomas  Davis  and  William  Speer  preached  occasionally 
during  1808.  The  first  settled  pastor  was  the  Rev.  James  Galbraith. 
He  was  installed  pastor  over  the  united  congregations  of  Gilgal  and 
Harmony  in  1808,  and  was  called  to  Indiana  and  installed  for  one- 
half  of  his  time  in  1809.  In  1810  he  resigned  at  Harmony  and 
came  to  Indiana,  where  he  remained  till  1816,  when  he  resigned 
and  went  to  Huntingdon  county.  He  died  at  Ligonier,  Westmore- 
land county,  in  1857.  The  next  pastor  was  Rev.  John  Reed.  He 
came  as  a  licentiate  from  Washington  county,  and  was  engaged  in 
October,  1817,  to  preach  to  the  congregations  of  Gilgal  and  Indiana 
as  stated  supply.  He  was  ordained  and  installed  pastor  of  these 
churches  in  October,  1818,  by  the  Presbytery  of  Redstone.  In 
1839,  he  resigned  the  charge  of  Gilgal,  and  gave  the  whole  of  his 
time  to  Indiana  until  his  death,  which  occurred  September  27,  1840. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  229 

Mr.  Reed  was  a  man  of  fine  presence,  genial  manners  and  great 
-energy,  and  is  held  in  loving  remembrance  by  the  few  survivors  of 
his  ministry.  Mr.  Reed  was  followed  by  Lewis  W.  Williams,  who 
came  as  a  licentiate  in  1840,  s-oon  after  Mr.  Reed's  death,  and  on 
May,  1841,  was  ordained  and  installed  pastor  by  the  Presbytery  of 
Blairsville.  He  resigned  in  the  spring  of  1844,  and  died  at  Landis- 
burg.  Pa.,  in  1858.  During  Mr.  Williams'  pastorate  the  number 
of  members  reported  was  153,  the  same  as  reported  by  his  pre- 
decessor, Mr.  Reed.  During  Mr.  Galbraith's  ministry  the  number 
did  not  exceed  eighty  or  ninety. 

The  next  pastor  was  Anderson  B.  Quay,  who  was  ordained 
and  installed  in  May,  1844.  He  resigned  in  1850,  and  died  at 
Rochester,  Pa.,  in  1857.  During  his  pastorate  the  membership  had 
increased  to  one  hundred  and  ninety, 

Mr.  Quay  was  succeeded  by  Rev.  Andrew  McElwain,  Sep- 
tember 7,  1852,  who  resigned  in  1872,  after  a  long  and  eminently 
successful  pastorate  of  twenty  years.  Dr.  McElwain  is  still  living 
in  Philadelphia,  Pa.,  enjoying  the  memories  and  fruits  of  a  well- 
spent  life  in  his  Master's  service.  Dr.  McElwain  is  an  able 
theologian,  an  earnest,  effective  preacher,  and  was  *a  most  faithful 
pastor.  His  work  in  Indiana  was  twice  sealed  with  a  special 
blessing  of  the  Holy  Spirit,  resulting  in  large  ingatherings.  When 
he  was  installed  there  were  reported  169  members.  When  he 
resigned  there  were  362,  with  a  Sabbath  School  of  360  members. 
During  this  favored  pastorate  the  church  was  an  example  of 
beneficence,  its  gifts  in  1872  to  Home  Missions,  $596,  Foreign 
Missions,  $430,  Education,  $100,  etc.  Few  pastorates  have  been 
more  fruitful  in  good  than  this  one  running  through  the  fifth  of 
a  century. 

The  following  furnished  by  D*;.  McElwain,  upon  request  of 
the  writer,  is  here  inserted: 


PERSONAL    RECOLLECTIONS    OF    DR.    M  ELWAIN  S    PASTORATE. 

"The  Rev.  Andrew  McElwain  was  j^astor  of  the  church  of 
Indiana  from  1852  to  1872,  a  period  of  twenty  years.  He  was 
installed,  September  7,  1852,  by  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville.  Rev. 
Samuel    Swan    preached.    Rev.    Samuel  M.    McClung    gave   the 


280  HISTORY    OF    THE 


charge  to  the  pastor,  and  Rev.  John  Caruthers  to  the  people.  The 
church  then  consisted  of  one  hundred  and  fifty-nine  communicants.,, 
and  the  state  of  rcHgion  was  rather  formal.  The  number  of 
families  and  parts  of  families,  requiring  pastoral  care  and  visitation, 
was  about  two  hundred,  scattered  over  a  large  hilly  district  some- 
what circular,  with  a  radius  of  five  or  six  miles,  the  town  being 
near  the  centre. 

The  pastoral  labor  was  arduous  from  the  beginning,  but  the 
divine  presence  was  with  the  people,  not  as  the  fire  and  the  earth- 
quake, but  the  Spirit  descended  as  rain  upon  the  mown  grass,  as 
showers  that  water  the  earth ;  they  enjoyed  frequent  times  of  refresh- 
ing, and  the  church  increased  gradually  and  almost  constantly  dur- 
ing the  whole  period,  both  in  numbers  and  spiritual  attainments. 
In  1854,  a  precious  awakening  brought  in  twenty-one  members  on 
profession.  Again,  in  1858,  at  the  time  they  entered  their  new  and 
commodious  house  of  worship,  they  shared  largely  in  the  great 
revival  which  then  spread  through  the  land.  The  fiist  fruits  of 
this  precious  revival  were  fiftj'-one  new  communicants  on  profes- 
sion. This  accession  greatly  increased  the  number  of  those  wha 
were  able  to  make  edifying  prayers  in  public,  a  circumstance  which 
ever  after  very  much  increased  the  interest  in  their  meetings  for 
prayer  and  conference.  Previous  to  this  time  the  pastor's  helpers^ 
in  such  meetings,  were  comparatively  few. 

Tlie  financial  strength  of  the  congregation  very  much  increased 
during  this  period;  and,  though  the  liberality  of  the  people  cannot 
be  said  to  have  increased  in  the  same  proportion,  yet  there  was 
considerable  increase  in  their  contributions  for  church  purposes. 
The  pastor's  salary  was  increased  from  time  to  time,  from  six 
hundred  to  sixteen  hundred  dollars,  and  valuable  assistance  was 
given  him  in  procuring  a  comfortable  residence.  The  contributions 
to  benevolent  objects  grew  from  sixty -two  to  seventeen  hundred 
and  seventy-nine  dollars,  and  many  valuable  boxes  of  clothing  for 
missionary  families  in  the  west  were  prepared  by  the  ladies. 

The  cause  of  education  also  made  great  advances  during  this 
period,  and  the  pastor,  of  course,  was  identified  with  this  important 
movement.  In  1852,  the  common  schools  in  Indiana  county  were 
in  a  very  imperfect  condition,  but  by  the  earnest  efforts  of  the 
friends  of  education,  the  cause  soon  began  to  show  signs  of  life. 
The  Indiana  County  Normal  School  was  instituted,  October,  1855, 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  '231 

for  assisting  teachers  better  to  qualify  themselves  tor  their  profes- 
sion. The  old  academy  at  Indiana  was  re-opened  in  November  ol 
•the  same  year  with  Andrew  McElwain  as  principal,  and  Silas  M. 
Clark  as  teacher,  and  was  kept  in  successful  operation  for  several 
years.  The  Indiana  Seminary  was  established  in  November,  1858, 
by  J.  Willis  Westlake  and  R.  T.  Cornwell,  and  did  much  to  pro- 
mote the  grov/ing  interest  in  education.  The  excellent  graded 
school  of  Indiana  was  instituted  not  far  from  this  time,  and  has 
done  eminent  service  in  the  same  cause.  And  measures  were  set 
on  foot  tov/ard  the  close  of  this  formative  pei'iod,  which  resulted  in 
the  establishment  of  the  present  prosperous  State  Normal  School 
at  Indiana,  Thus  culture  and  religion  proceeded  hand  in  hand  in 
the  general  progress  of  society. 

1852,  and  for  some  years  after,  most  of  the  hotels  in  town  were 
kept  by  persons  who  were  in  full  communion  in  the  Presbyterian 
church.  This  circumstance,  in  the  estimation  of  many,  made  this 
church  responsible  for  a  large  part  of  the  crime  and  misery  of  tb^) 
■community.  The  pastor,  fully  persuaded  that  this  business,  in 
existing  circumstances,  could  not  be  conducted  on  truly  Christian 
principles,  called  the  attention  of  the  elders  to  the  matter,  desiring 
them  to  adopt  a  rule  excluding  the  venders  of  ardent  spirits  as  u 
beverage  from  full  communion  in  the  church.  After  a  very  care- 
ful and  prayerful  consideration  of  the  whole  subject,  they  unani- 
mously resolved,  that,  though  they  could  not,  at  that  time,  adopt 
the  proposed  rule,  yet  they  would  not  put  any  restraint  on  the  pul- 
pit. This  decision  removed  the  responsibility  from  the  pastor  to 
the  ruling  elders.  Not  long  afterwards,  under  the  ^"idance  of  an 
all- wise  Providence,  all  this  class  of  members  had  either  removed 
from  town  or  ceased  to  engage  in  the  traffic.  The  I'ule  was  then 
unanimously  adopted  to  the  great  joy  of  the  people  generally.  The 
cause  of  temjoerance,  however,  in  the  community  during  this  whole 
period  was  up-hill  work. 

The  Sabbath  School  was  always  esteemed  a  very  important 
part  of  church  work.  The  superintendent  was  an  elder,  John 
Sutton,  who  was  able,  liberal,  earnest,  sound  in  the  faith,  and,  in  all 
respects  well  accomplished  for  this  work.  There  was,  in  the 
school,  a  band  of  teachers,  who,  for  intelligence,  patient  continu- 
ance in   well  doing,  and  love  for   the  truths  of  the   Bible,  had  few 


232  HISTORY    OF    THE 


superiors  anywhere  in  the  church,     This  work  grew  in  extent  and 
usefulness  during  the  whole  period. 

The  following  is  a  short  sumnriary  of  the  pastoral  work  done 
during  the  twenty  years,  together  with  the  visible  results.  The 
number  of  sermons  and  discourses  of  all  kinds  delivered  was  not 
less  than  three  thousand,  the  number  of  visits  of  all  sorts  was  not 
less  than  five  thousand,  ihe  number  of  marriages  solemnized  was 
one  hundred  and  eighty-two,  the  number  of  baptisms  was,  adults 
forty-six,  infants  three  hundred  and  eighty-five,  an  aggregate  of 
four  hundred  and  thirty-one.  The  number  of  additions  was  two 
hundred  and  eighty-two  on  profession,  and  three  hundred  and 
twenty-eight  on  certificate,  making  an  aggregate  of  six  hundred  and 
ten. 

By  comparing  the  first  and  the  last  year  the  progress  made  by 
the  church  in  the  meantime,  will  appear:  In  1852  there  were  one 
hundred  and  fifty-nine  conmiunicants;  in  1872  there  were  three 
hundred  and  sixty-two  communicants;  in  1852  the  whole  amount  of 
contributions  to  benevolent  objects  was  sixty-two  dollars;  in  1872 
the  whole  amount  was  seventeen  hundred  and  seventy-nine  dollars; 
in  1852  three  were  one  hundred  Sabbath  School  members;  in  1872 
there  were  three  hundred  and  sixty  Sabbath  School  members." 

Dr.  McElwain  was  succeeded  by  Rev.  D.  Hall,  D.  D.,  who  was 
installed,  June  30,  1874,  and  is  the  present  pastor.  In  the  installa- 
tion the  Rev.  Drs.  W.  W.  Woodend  and  D.  J.  Irwin  with  Rev.  J. 
T.  Francis  officiated.  Early  in  the  present  pastorate  the  Congrega.- 
tional  Church  was  disbanded,  and  the  members  united  with  the 
Presbyterian,  where  most  of  them  had  held  membership  before. 
In  1876,  there  was  an  ingathering,  mainly  from  the  youth  of  the 
congregation  of  60  on  examination  at  one  communion,  and  of  82 
during  the  year.  In  1887,  a  quiet  interest  resulted  in  an  addition  of 
27  on  examination  in  nine  months.  The  prei=ent  membership  is 
about  480.  Four  young  men  have  entei-ed  the  ministry  during  the 
present  pastorate,  with  one  candidate  under  our  care.  Within  a 
year  a  debt  of  $1,400  has  been  paid,  repairs  costing  $1,800  com- 
pleted, with  a  new  pipe  organ  in  place,  costing  $2,000.  There  are 
at  present  two  efficient  missionary  societies,  a  Woman's  Foreign 
Missionary  Society,  and  a  Young  Ladies'  Home  jSIissionarj'  Society, 
with  a  White  Ribbon  Society  in  the  Sabbath  School. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNIXG. 


233 


RULING    ELDERS. 

At  the  organization  of  the  church  in  1807,  James  McLain,  John 
Ross,  John  Wilson  and  Joseph  Moorhead  were  ordained  and 
installed  ruling  elders,  and  in  1810,  James  McKnight.  During  the 
pastorate  of  Mr.  Reed,  from  1818  to  1840,  John  Douglass,  Wm. 
Lucas,  James  Todd,  Jacob  Peelor,  Robert  A.  Hamilton,  James 
Hamilton,  Clements  McGara  and  Robert  Walker  were  ordained 
and  installed.  Thomas  Laughlin,  John  P.  Lloyd  and  Woodrow 
Douglass  in  1840;  Joseph  Thompson,  James  McLain,  James  Moor- 
head and  John  Sutton  in  1851;  A.  W.  Wilson,  W.  B.  Marshall  and 
Alexander  Fair,  December  27,  1868;  James  M.  Sutton,  Thomas 
Sutton  and  Coulter  Wiggins,  January  5,  1879. 

TERM    OF    SERVICE    OF    ELDERS. 


NAME.  ORDAINED 

James  McLain  

John  Wilson 

John  Ross 

Joseph  Moorhead 

John  Douglass  — 

James  McKnight 

William  Lucas Mav, 

James  Todd May, 

Jacob  Peelor JM^y, 

fames  Hamilton May, 

Clements  McGara Ma^^, 

Robert  Walker May. 

Thomas  Laughlin November, 

John  P.  Lloyd November, 

Woodrow  Douglass November, 

Joseph  Thompson May, 

John  Sutton May, 

James  Moorhead May, 

James  M.Sutton .'...January    5, 


DIED. 

1807 \ugust, .  1835. 

1807 August,  1827. 

1807 June  8,  1846. 

1807 December      7,  1844. 

1820 A.  D.,  1859. 

1810 June,  1819. 

1830 September,         1839. 

1830 September   IS,  1872. 

1830..Transferred  to  Currie's  Run. 

1830 1852. 

1830 1833. 

1830 Ceased  to  act,   1837. 

1840 1877. 

1840 Not  known. 

1840 March  15,  1850- 

1851 October        27,  1880. 

1851 June  9,  1877. 

1851 September   14,  1885. 

1879 March  6,  1882. 


THE    PRESENT    SESSION. 


James    ISIcLain,  A.  W.    Wilson,  W.   B.   Marshall,    Alexander 
Fair,  Thomas  Sutton  and  Coulter  Wiggins. 


234  HISTORY    OP'    THE 


SUNDAY    SCHOOL    SUPERINTENDENTS. 

There  was  a  Union  Missionary  Sunday  School  in  the  town 
during  1825  and  1880.  The  name  of  the  superintendent  is  not 
known.  The  Presbyterian  Sunday  School  was  organized  in  1840, 
with  John  P.  Lloyd  as  superintendent.  Woodrow  Douglass  and 
Joseph  Thompson  were  superintendents  from  1844  to  1850,  James 
K.  Bell,  1850-53,  John  Sutton,  1853  to  1877,  A.  W.  Wilson  from 
1877  to  date.  Mr.  Sutton  was  an  enthusiastic  and  successful  Sun- 
day School  worker,  and  left  a  bequest  ot  $5,000  for  a  memorial 
Sunday  School  building,  which  we  hope  soon  to  erect. 

The  following  are  the  officers  of  the  present  school :  Superin- 
tendent, A.  W.  Wilson;  Librarian,  John  W.  Sutton;  Secretary 
and  Treasurer,  Thomas  Sutton;  Superintendents  of  Primary 
School,  !Misses  Birdie  MacLaren  and  Maria  Davis;  Teachers  of 
Bible  Classes,  W.  B.  Marshall  and  Coulter  Wiggins. 

The  church,  like  most  churches  in  old  towns  of  small  and 
stationary  population,  has  suffered  from  removals.  The  member- 
ship at  the  beginning  of  the  present  pastorate  was  362.  Since  that 
time  more  than  600  have  been  added,  an  average  of  about  fortv- 
eight  each  year,  but  the  present  membership  is  only  about  480. 

The  attendance  on  public  worship  is  uniformly  large,  as  in  all 
the  churches  in  the  town,  with  the  result,  a  high  standard  of  morals 
and  religion  in  the  entire  community.  Mission  Sunday  Schools  in 
the  neighborhood  of  the  town  have  been  potent  factors  in  this 
result.  The  Presbyterian  church  for  many  years  sustained  four 
Mission  Sabbath  Schools  in  the  neighborhood  of  the  town  with 
marked  results  in  the  social  and  religious  life  of  the  people.  "  My 
word  shall  not  return  unto  me  void,"  and  we  have  seen  its  fruits 
from  the  days  of  Henderson  and  McElwain  to  this  day  in  this 
highly  favored  community. 

"  His  foundation  is  in  the  holy  mountains.  The  Lord  loveth 
the  gates  of  Zion  more  than  all  the  dwellings  of  Jacob." 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  235 


JACKSONVILLE 


BY    REV.    D.   J.    IRWIN,    D.    D. 


TTTTTTTTTTT 


The  village  of  Jacksonville  is  located  nine  miles  southwest  of 
the  town  of  Indiana,  and  nearly  half  way  between  Bethel  and 
Ebenezer,  the  oldest  churches  in  the  county,  distant  three  miles 
from  either.  The  distance  from  these  nearest  churches  made  it 
very  inconvenient  for  members  in  the  village  of  Jacksonville  to 
attend  church  the  greater  part  of  the  year.  This  consideration  led 
a  number  of  families  in  and  adjacent  to  the  village  to  take  measures 
to  provide  a  church  of  their  own  choice,  where  they  might  enjoy 
the  ordinances  of  God's  house  more  regularly.  Accordingly,  in 
the  year  1855,  the  matter  began  to  assume  a  definite  form,  and  the 
result  was  that  in  the  summer  of  1856,  the  present  house  was 
erected,  a  frame  building,  in  size  45  by  55  feet.  During  the  fall 
and  winter  of  the  same  year  Rev.  Franklin  Orr,  pastor  of  Bethel 
and  Currie's  Run  churches,  preached  occasionally  in  the  afternoon 
and  evenings  until  about  the  first  of  January,  1888.  He  then 
preached  regularly  one-third  of  his  time,  though  as  yet  the  con- 
gregation had  no  regular  organization. 

At  a  meeting  of  the  Presbyteiy  of  Saitsburg,  held  at  Elder's 
Ridge,  the  1st  Tuesday  of  April,  1857,  a  petition  was  presented 
asking  for  the  organization  of  a  church  to  be  called  "  the  Presby- 
terian Church  of  Jacksonville."  This  petition  was  granted,  and  a 
committee  consisting  of  Andrew  McElwain  and  Franklin  Orr, 
ministers,  and  William  Robinson  and  Joseph  Henderson,  elders, 
was  appointed  to  organize  said  church  should  the  way  be  open.  On 
the    19th    ot  June,  1857,  the    committee    met    and    completed    the 


236  HISTORY    OF    THE 


organization,  the  following  members  uniting:  William  R.  Hunter, 
Lydia  Hunter,  Mary  Henderson,  Lucinda  L.  Henderson,  Nancy 
Henderson,  Scott  Marshall,  Hannah  Marshall,  Mary  McCurdy, 
Catharine  Jewel,  Samuel  Swanger,  Sarah  J.  Swan^er,  James 
McKee,  Nancy  ISTcKee,  Ellen  McKee,  William  Latimer,  Catharine 
Latimer,  D.  R.  Stitsill,  Matilda  Stitsill,  John  Mclntire,  Maria 
Thompson.  The  above  were  added  on  certificate.  The  following 
were  also  added  on  profession  of  their  faith;  Clarissa  Mclntire, 
Lucinda  Christman,  Hannah  iSIcKee,  Harriet  McKee. 

An  election  for  elders  was  then  entered  into,  resulting  in  the 
choice  of  James  McKee,  William  R.  Hunter  and  John  Mclntire, 
Mr.  Mclntire  declining.  Mr.  Hunter  was  ordained  and,  in  con- 
nection with  Mr.  McKee,  who  had  been  a  ruling  elder  in  the 
church  of  Bethel,  was  installed. 

A  regular  call  was  made  and  presented  to  <"he  Presbytery  at  its 
meeting,  June  15,  1858,  for  the  one-third  of  the  ministerial  services 
of  Rev.  Franklin  Orr.  The  call  was  accepted.  He  was  installed 
on  the  28th  ot  the  same  month,  Mr.  McMillan  and  Mr.  McElwain 
being  the  committee  of  installation. 

The  following  persons  have  been  elders  in  the  church  since  its 
organization:  James  McKee  and  William  R.  Hunter  installed 
June  19,  1857;  William  McFarland,  John  Mclntire  and  I.  N. 
Hodge,  June  27,  1858;  Evan  Lewis  and  J.  M.  Guthrie,  January 
12,  1863;  Israel  Thomas  and  J.  J.  Lewis,  September  19,  1870;  J. 
L.  Robinson,  January  17,  1874;  J.  M.  Barkley,  Carson  Fails  and 
Walter  Robinson,  in  1887. 

The  following  persons  comprise  the  present  session:  James 
McKee,  John  Mclntire,  J.  L.  Robinson,  J.  M.  Barkley,  Carson 
Fails,  Walter  Robinson. 

The  limited  territory  occupied  by  the  congregation  renders  the 
growth  of  the  membership  slow.  But  the  saddest  trial  in  the  early 
history  ot  the  church  was  the  removal  of  so  many  of  its  founders 
and  supporters.  At  times  the  very  existence  of  the  church  seemed 
to  be  threatened,  but  a  kind  providence  raised  up  others  to  take  their 
place,  and  the  church  still  lives,  and  is  doing  a  good  work,  and, 
though  not  free  from  such  trials,  she  has  greatly  overcome  them. 

The  church  from  the  beginning  has  been  blessed  with  a  good 
session,  and  with  praying  men  and  women.  The  prayer  meeting 
has  been  the  life  of   the  church.       With  the  spirit  of  praj'er  came 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  237 

the  spirit  of  giving  and  working.  So  both  time  and  money  were 
given  when  the  church  demanded  either  or  both.  This  church  lias 
never  been  permitted  to  rejoice  in  any  very  remarkable  revivals  ot 
religion,  yet  many  seasons  of  deep  spiritual  interest  have  been 
enjoyed,  and  there  have  been  few  times  when  there  were  not 
some  tokens  of  the  Divine  favor  and  the  presence  of  the  Holy 
Spirit. 

The  Sabbath  School  has  been  a  power  for  good  ever  since  the 
church  was  organized.  The  greater  part  of  the  parents  attend 
with  their  children.  It  has  been  made  a  special  feature  in  the 
Sabbath  School  to  cultivate  a  spirit  of  missions,  and  by  encouraging 
the  children  to  contribute  to  some  particular  object,  the  result  has 
been  very  gratifying. 

The  women  of  the  church  have  done  their  work  well.  Always 
ready  to  do  what  they  can,  they  are  behind  few  churches  in  their 
gifts  to  missions,  and  few  societies  of  equal  numbers  show  a  greater 
degree  of  liberality. 

Rev.  Franklin  Orr  is  the  only  pastor  this  church  has  ever  had. 
For  twenty-six  years,  as  an  earnest  and  faithful  ambassador  of 
Christ  he  proclaimed  to  them  the  glad  tidings  of  salvation,  and  as  a 
pastor  he  enjoyed  the  confidence  and  esteem  of  the  entire  congre- 
gation. He  was  installed  for  one-third  of  his  time,  but  generally 
preached  at  Bethel  in  the  morning,  and  at  Jacksonville  in  the  after- 
noon every  Sabbath.  At  his  own  request  the  pastoral  relation  was 
dissolved,  December  31,  1884.  He,  with  others,  supplied  the 
church  until  April  1,  1886,  when  Rev.  T.  R.  Ewing,  D.  D.,  be- 
came stated  supply,  and  still  continues  to  labor  am.ong  them  with 
acceptance  and  pi^ofit. 

There  has  been  only  one  church  building,  but  the  old  building 
was  repaired  throughout  in  1882  to  the  amount  of  $400. 

The  present  membership  of  the  church  is  ninety.  Rev.  Wm^. 
Harvey  Robinson  is  in  the  ministry  from  this  church.  He  was 
once  and  again  a  missionary  to  Africa,  and  returned  each  time  on 
account  of  ill  health.  He  is  now  laboring  as  a  missionary  in  Chili, 
South  America.  The  church,  as  a  whole,  has  from  the  beginning 
been  an  active,  working  one,  and  though  few  in  numbers,  has  let  its 
light  shine  and  exerted  an  influence  for  good  that  will  be  felt  for  ail 
time  to  come. 


238  HISTORY    OF    THE 


KITTANNING,   FIRST. 


TTTTTTTTTTTT  T  TTT 


BY    A.    C.    CRAWFORD,    ESQ. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


The  history  of  early  Presbyterianism  in  Western  Pennsylvania 
is  especially  full  of  interest.  Around  the  old  Redstone  and  Erie 
Presbyteries,  blessed  of  God  in  their  hard  labor,  cluster  many 
hallowed  memories,  and  the  earnest  student  of  church  affairs  in  that 
remote  time  cannot  but  be  deeply  impressed  with  the  earnest  devo- 
tion, the  self-sacrificing  spirit,  the  devout  trust,  the  heroic  faith 
manifested  by  the  pioneers  of  the  gospel  in  their  successful  attempt 
to  Christianize  the  western  wilderness.  But  with  all  our  admiration 
is  mingled  the  regret  that  no  accurate  or  detailed  account  can  be 
given  of  the  difficulties  encountered  and  overcome  in  the  founding 
and  fostering  of  these  infant  churches,  nor  until  recent  years  of 
their  wonderful  growth.  The  minutes  of  both  Presbytery  and 
session  are  in  -many  instances  wanting.  Such  fragmentary  records 
as  have  come  down  to  us  are  unsatisfactory  and  often  misleading, 
and  the  generations  which  then  lived  and  labored  have  passed  away, 
leaving  but  imperfect  testimonials  of  their  perfect  work. 

From  such  data  as  we  have,  however,  it  is  possible  to  state  some 
facts  with  reference  to  the  establishment  and  subsequent  progress  of 
the  First  Presbyterian  Church  of  Kittanning.  We  know  that  in 
April,  1806,  a  body  of  Christians  in  Kittanning  made  application  to 
Redstone  Presbytery  for  supplies,  that  in  answer  Rev.  Mr.  Hen- 
derson was  appointed  to  preach  on  the  second  Sabbath  of  June, 
1806,  and  that  this,  as  far  as  can  be  ascertained,  was  the  first  ser- 
mon preached  in  Kittanning  by  a  Presbyterian  minister.  As  there 
was  at  this  time  no    church  organization  existing  this  congregation 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  239 

must  have  been  composed  of  those  who  either  were  members  of 
Presbyterian  churches  elsewhere,  or  who  subsequently  united  in  a 
petition  to  the  Presbytery,  asking  that  a  minister  might  occasionally 
be  sent  to  break  unto  them  the  bread  of  life.  In  response  to  this 
petition  the  minutes  of  the  Redstone  Presbytery  show  that  from 
1806  to  1814  supplies  were  variously  sent  two,  three,  four  and  five 
times  a  year,  and,  if  services  were  held  oftener  during  any  year,  the 
burden  must  have  fallen  upon  those  ministers  whom  we  find  were 
appointed  to  preach  two  or  three  times  annually,  "  at  discretion." 
During  these  years  those  who  visited  the  church  either  at  discretion 
or  by  appointment  were  Rev.  Joseph  Henderson,  Rev.  Mr.  Porter, 
Rev.  Mr.  Galbraith,  Rev.  Robert  Lee  and  Rev.  Thomas  Hunt. 

In  April,  1815,  the  congregation  was  granted  leave  to  apply  to 
the  Presbytery  of  Erie,  the  Allegheny  river  being  the  dividing  line 
between  the  Presbyteries  of  Erie  and  Redstone,  for  supplies,  and 
until  1822  the  church  services  were  conducted  on  different  occasions 
by  Rev.  Robert  Lee,  Rev.  J.  Stockton,  Rev.  James  Graham,  Rev. 
James  Coe,  Rev.  Joseph  Henderson,  Rev.  John  Reed,  Rev.  David 
Barclay  and  Mr.  Thomas  Davis,  a  licentiate  of  the  Presbytery. 

All  this  was  but  preliminary.  On  Saturday,  August  31,  1822, 
divine  services  were  held  in  the  Court  House,  on  the  corner  of 
Market  and  Jefferson  streets,  and  after  a  sermon  by  Mr.  Davis, 
Rev.  John  Andrews,  formally  organized  the  First  Presbyterian 
Church  of  Kittanning,  with  twenty-two  members,  eleven  of  whom 
were  received  upon  examination,  and  eleven  upon  certificate. 
Messrs.  David  Johnston,  Thomas  Hamilton  and  John  Patrick  were 
installed  as  ruling  elders,  and  the  sacrament  of  the  Lord's  Supper 
was  first  observed  by  the  newly  organized  congregation  on  the 
following  day,  Sunday,  September  1,  1822. 

In  the  following  October  a  call  was  presented  to  Mr.  Thomas 
Davis,  but  declined,  and  again  for  several  years  services  were  held 
at  irregular  intervals  by  Rev.  David  Barclay,  Rev.  Nathaniel  R. 
Snowden,  Rev.  Elisha  D.  Bari'ett,  Rev.  Jesse  Smith  and  Rev. 
John  Reed,  Mr.  Snowden  being  the  stated  supply  during  1825-26 
and  a  part  of  1827,  when  charges  were  preferred  against  him, 
touching  his  standing  as  a  minister  of  Christ,  the  allegation  being 
a  too  free  indulgence  in  intoxicating  liquors.  Upon  this  he 
v/as  tried,  found  guilty,  but  subsequently  reinstated  in  his  minis- 
terial office  upon  confession  of  his  sin  and  a  declaration  of  repentance. 


240  HISTORY    OF    THE 


The  first  statistical  report  seems  to  have  been  made  April  20,. 
1824,  and  shows  a  membership  of  twenty-seven,  with  contributions 
to  missionary  fvmds  $4.00,  to  commissioner's  fund  $4.00,  to  educa- 
tion fund  $5.00,  that  for  1826,  membership  forty,  missionary  fund 
$2.00,  education  $3.00.  In  April,  1826,  the  feeble  church  met  with 
a  great  loss  in  the  death  of  one  of  its  first  elders,  Mr.  John  Patrick, 
whose  successor,  Mr.  Samuel  Matthews,  elected  November  11, 1826, 
died  before  his  ordination. 

The  first  Presbytery  held  in  Kittanning  convened  December 
1,  1829,  for  the  purpose  of  trying  Mr.  Snovvden  upon  the  charges 
referred  to,  and  met  again  on  August  11,  1830,  to  ordain  and  install 
Mr.  James  Campbell,  who  had  accepted  a  call  for  three-fourths  of 
his  time  at  a  salary  of  $300.  On  this  occasion  Rev.  Thomas 
Davis  presided  and  delivered  one  of  the  charges  and  Rev.  Samuel 
McPherrin  preached  the  sermon.  But  twenty-four  members  were 
reported  by  the  church  in  1831,  on  October  4th  of  which  year 
Mr.  Campbell  resigned  his  pastoral  charge,  having  served  but  little 
more  than  one  year.  He  seems  to  have  been  a  man  of  deep 
religious  convictions,  of  a  high  type  of  piety,  earnest  and  faithful 
in  Christian  work  and  during  his  stay,  the  brevit}'  of  which  is 
unexplained,  had  the  honor  of  organizing  the  first  ladies'  pra3'er- 
meeting.  After  his  departure  and  until  April,  1834,  when  the 
church  reported  thirty-four  members  and  the  death  of  an  elder, 
Mr.  Thomas  Hamilton,  it  was  again  dependent  upon  Presbyterial 
supplies,  who  were  Rev.  David  Lewis,  Rev.  Elisha  D.  Barrett,, 
Rev.  John  Reed,  Rev.  Thomas  Davis  and  Mr.  Montgomerj-. 

The  struggling  congregation  had  infused  into  it  a  new  life  and 
really  began  its  upward  and  signally  successful  career  when,  in 
April,  1834,  Dr.  Joseph  Painter  became  its  leader  and  director. 
This  subsequently  eminent  divine  had  visited  Kittanning  in  the  fall 
of  1833,  spent  two  Sabbaths  here  and  preached  three  sermons, 
returning  to  his  home  in  Northumberland  countj'^,  w^hence  he  was 
called  to  this  pastorate.  On  the  memorable  occasion  of  his  instal- 
lation, November  14,  1834,  Rev.  Elisha  D.  Barrett  preached  the 
sermon.  Rev.  Robert  Johnston  presided  and  gave  the  charge  to  the 
pastor,  and  Rev.  Daniel  Lewis  that  to  the  people,  Mr.  Hamlet 
Totten  being  installed  elder  at  the  same  time,  and  who  still  sur- 
vives as  a  ruling  elder  in  Rural  Valley  church.     In  June,  1834,  at 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTAXNING.  241 

the  first  conimuuion  service  held  after  Dr.  Painter's  arrival,  twenty- 
two   persons  were  received  into  church  membership. 

From  this  time  the  meagre  history  of  the  ciiurch  has  been  con- 
veniently written  in  decades,  and  we  learn  that  during  the  period 
elapsing  between  18c{-4  and  1844,  three  ruling  elders  were  installed, 
Mr.  Chas.  Montgomery  on  June  14,  1839,  and  Messrs.  John  Hood 
and  A.  L.  Robinson  on  August  1,  1841;  Messrs.  Alexander  Col- 
well  and  J.  R.Johnston  were  set  apart  as  deacons;  107  members 
in  all  were  received,  and  $250  given  for  benevolent  work. 

The  report  for  April,  1854,  presents  a  membership  of  111,  107 
persons  having  been  received  during  the  decade,  two  additional 
elders,  Messrs.  James  Patrick  and  S.  S.  White,  installed  April  26, 
1850,  and  $531.50  contributed  to  the  Boards  of  the  church. 

The  record  for  the  years  ending  April,  1864,  shows  that  152 
persons  had  united  with  the  church,  a  membership  of  146,  $1,573 
contributed,  and  the  installation  of  five  elders,  Mr.  James  S. 
Quigley,  on  the  fourth  Sabbath  of  August,  1856,  and  Messrs.  John 
Robinson,  P.  K.  Bowman,  Marcus  Hulings  and  J.  B.  Finlay  on 
March  8,  1860.  During  the  spring  and  summer  of  the  latter  year, 
a  year  marked  with  an  unusual  degree  of  prosperity  and  i"eligious 
interest.  Rev.  Geo.  P.  Hays  was  associated  with  Dr.  Painter  in 
ministering  to  the  congregation,  and  in  the  fall  a  formal  call  to 
become  co-pastor  was  extended  to  Mr.  Hays,  who  declined.  From 
this  time  for  about  four  years  several  ministers  occasionally  assisted 
Dr.  Painter,  notably  Rev.  Mr.  Taylor,  Rev.  Dr.  Marks,  Rev.  J.  S. 
Stuchell  and  Rev.  P.  H.  Mowry,  of  Philadelphia,  to  the  latter  of 
whom  a  call  was  extended  August  8,  1863.  He  also  declined, 
and  the  church,  though  apparently  prosperous  and  influential, 
seems  at  this  period  to  have  been  vexed  with  many  troubles.  There 
was  no  little  dissatisfaction  with  the  jDrevailing  order  of  affairs  and 
much  discord  among  the  members  and  session,  but  happily,  while 
matters  vv^ere  in  this  evil  state,  Rev.  T.  D.  Ewing,  then  a  student 
in  the  Western  Theological  Seminary,  delivered  his  first  sermon  in 
Kittanning,  January  17,  1864,  and  upon  invitation  of  the  session, 
preached  every  alternate  Sabbath  until  April  1,  of  that  year,  when 
he  was  formally  called  to  become  co-pastor  with  Dr.  Painter,  the 
congregation  having  previously  agreed  to  pay  to  the  latter  his  full 
salary  dui'ing  his  life.  The  call  to  Mr.  Ewing  was  presented  at 
the  meeting  of  the  Presbytery  of  Saltsburg,  held  at  Glade  Run  in 

31 


242  HISIORY    OF    THE 


April,  1864,  and  accepted,  and  on  May  10,  1864,  the  Presbytery 
met  in  Kittanning',  when  Mr.  Evving  was  ordained  and  installed, 
Rev.  Wm.  M.  Paxton,  D.  D.,  then  pastor  of  the  First  Presby- 
terian church,  of  Pittsburgh,  preaching  the  ordination  sermon  from 
•he  text,  Ps.  118:  25,"  "Save  now  I  beseech  thee,  O  Lord;  O 
Lord,  I  beseech  thee  send  now  prosperity."  Rev.  D.  W,  Town- 
send  presided.  Dr.  Painter  offered  the  ordination  prayer.  Dr. 
Donaldson  delivered  the  charge  to  the  pastor.  Dr.  Woodend  the 
charge  to  the  congregation,  and  in  the  evening  Rev.  A.  McElwain 
preached  a  sermon  on  Presbyterianism. 

Dr.  Painter  continued  to  preach  occasionally  for  five  or  six 
years  until  failing  strength  and  the  increasing  infirmities  of  age 
compelled  him  to  relinquish  to  other  hands  the  work  he  loved  so 
well. 

The  yejr  following  Dr.  Ewing's  installation  was  one  of  marked 
prosperity;  54  members  were  received,  13  upon  certific  .te,  41  upon 
examination,  while  during  the  ten  years  from  1864  to  1874,  267 
v/ere  received,  134  upon  certificate  and  133  upon  profession  of 
faith,  the  report  for  April,  1874,  showing  a  membership  of  275, 
and  $12,063  contributed  to  the  Boards  of  the  church.  On  Septem- 
ber 20,  1858,  ]Messrs.  John  G.  Parr  and  Jas.  E.  Brown,  and  on 
November  6,  1869,  Mr.  W.  H.  Jack  were  installed  as  ruling  elders. 

In  1873,  the  congregation  suffered  its  greatest  loss  in  the  death 
of  its  venerable  and  revered  pastor,  Dr.  Painter,  who  fell  asleep 
June  1,  on  a  bright  Sabbath  morning,  to  wake  in  the  radiant  sun- 
shine of  that  unending  Sabbath  for  which  he  had  long  hoped. 
Though  for  many  years  incapacitated  from  active  work,  he  was  as 
a  father  in  Israel  and  watched  with  tender  care  over  the  household 
to  which  he  had  so  long  faithfully  ministered,  and  b}^  which  he 
was  so  much  beloved.  A  memorial  sermon  was  preached  by  Mr. 
Evving,  which  eloquently  set  forth  the  life-long  devotion,  the 
untiring  zeal,  the  entire  consecration,  the  eminent  piety  and  the 
precious  reward  of  this  precious  servant  of  the  Lord. 

In  November,  1873,  there  were  organized  a  Woman's  Foreign 
Missionary  Society,  and  a  Young  Men's  Prayer-Meeting,  both  of 
which  still  exist  in  a  flourishing  condition,  and  deserve  more  than  a 
passing  mention  for  the  great  good  they  have  accomplished  and 
the  interest  they  have  aroused  in  their  several  spheres  of  work,  and 
on  November  10,  1874,  a  Woman's  Prayer  Meeting  was  organized 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  243 

as  auxillian-  to  the  Missionary  vSociety,  which  was  subsequently 
merged  into  the  Pastor's  Aid  Society,  a  highly  appreciated  factor 
in  ail  church  work. 

The  records  from  1874  to  1884,  show  that  in  that  time  258 
persons  had  been  added  to  the  church,  that  $39,555  had  been  con- 
tributed for  various  church  purposes,  and  that  on  February  11, 
1877,  Messrs.  James  Martin,  G.  W.  Doverspike  and  Robert  S. 
Slaymaker  were  installed  as  ruling  elders. 

In  the  winter  of  1880,  Mr.  Ewing  was  elected  to  the  presi- 
dency of  Parson's  College  at  Fairfield,  Iowa,  and  left  Kittanning 
for  his  new  and  enlarged  field  of  labor,  the  church  being  without  a 
pastor  for  some  time  until  in  the  spring  of  1881  an  invitation  was 
extended  to  Rev.  H.  L.  Mayers,  previously  pastor  of  the  church  at 
Millville,  N.  J.,  to  fill  the  vacant  pulpit.  This  invitation  Mr. 
Mayers  accepted  and  was  installed  by  the  Presbytery  of  Kittan- 
ning on  May  11,  1881,  when  Rev.  David  Hall,  D.  D.,  preached 
the  sermon,  the  constitutional  questions  were  proposed  by  Rev. 
H.  Magill,  the  charge  to  the  pastor  was  given  by  Rev.  D.  H. 
Slo:m,  and  that  to  the  people  by  Rev.  H.  IVIagill.  How  earnestly 
and  efficiently  Mr.  Mayers  has  labored  is  attested  by  the  laro-e 
additions  to  the  church  and  the  steady  and  marked  increase  in  the 
contributions.  Early  recognizing  the  fact  thnt  the  rapid  growth  of 
the  congregation  imperatively  demanded  a  larger  place  of  worship, 
he  has  been  untiring  in  his  efforts  to  build  a  new  church  edifice, 
ar.d  now  has  the  satisfaction  of  knowing  that,  under  the  provi- 
dence of  God,  his  labor  will  be  crowned  with  success. 

During  the  four  years  from  1884,  to  this  there  have  been 
received  into  the  communion  of  the  church,  170  persons,  and  con- 
tribi:ted  for  nil  purposes,  $31,647,  of  which  $15,500  were  con- 
tributed in  the  past  year. 

In  the  fall  of  1885,  an  election  of  elders  was  held  which 
resulted  in  the  installation  on  October  4,  of  Messrs.  Andrew 
Thompson,  Robert  W.  Cowan  and  Findlay  P.  Wolfe. 

The  Sabbath  School,  which  has  been  wonderfully  successful 
ur.der  the  efficient  superintendence  of  Mr.  George  \V.  Doverspike 
deserves  more  than  this  mere  passing  mention.  It  has  a  corps  of 
officers  and  teachers  earnestly  devoted  to  their  wcjrk,  and  a  con- 
stantly grovv'ing  list  of  interested  and  attentive  scholars.  The  report 
for  the  current  year  ending  April  1,  shows   a   membership  of  255, 


244  HISTORY    OF    THE 


an  average  attendance  of  165  and  collections  aggregating  $330. 
The  Sabbath  School  dates  from  a  very  early  period  in  the 
history  of  the  church.  For  about  forty  years  previous  to  his  death, 
James  E.  Brown  was,  most  of  the  time,  its  enthusiastic  and  efficient 
superintendent.  During  a  few  years  from  about  1860  onward, 
Thomas  McConnel,  J.  Alex.  Fulton,  J.  B.  Finlay  and  D.  H.Sloan, 
each  served  for  a  comparatively  short  term. 

It  is  a  singular  fact  that  little  can  be  learned  from  the  church 
records  as  to  the  very  important  matter  in  its  history,  that  of  church 
erection.  It  appears  from  the  meagre  data  at  hand  that  a  frame 
building  of  inconsiderable  size  was  built  upon  the  present  site  of 
the  church  about  1830.  This  finally  became  so  dilapidated  that  it 
was  torn  down  to  give  place  to  the  present  building  erected  at  the 
solicitation  of  Dr.  Painter  in  1856.  To  this  many  repairs  have 
been  made,  notably  in  1866,  when  the  interior  was  remodeled, 
frescoed,  new  pews  put  in,  and  a  gallery  added,  new  buildings 
being  subsequently  erected  in  the  rear  to  be  used  in  connection 
with  the  Sabbath  School  as  class  rooms  and  social  parlors.  As  has 
been  mentioned,  it  has  long  been  evident  that  the  accommodations 
of  the  church  were  wholly  inadequate  to  the  convenience  of  the 
growing  congregation,  and  in  the  past  winter  several  meetings 
were  held  to  take  action  upon  the  building  of  a  new  church.  A 
desirable  location  having  been  secured  and  the  necessary  funds  sub- 
scribed, these  meetings  culminated  on  Thursday  evening,  March 
15,  last,  in  the  adoption  of  a  plan  and  the  appointment  of  a  build- 
ing committee,  which  confidently  expects  to  begin  work  as  soon  as 
the  weather  permits.  It  is  impossible  and  unnecessary  to  enter 
into  details,  but  it  is  proper  to  say  that  in  a  short  time  a  handsome 
and  commodious  house  dedicated  to  the  worship  of  God  will  be 
the  happy  possession  of  the  First  Presbyterian  church  of  Kittan- 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNIXG.  2i5 


KITTANNiNG,  SECOND. 


BY    REV.    DEWITT    M.    BENHAM. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


The  Second  Presbyterian  Church  of  Kittanning  was  organized 
on  the  31st  day  of  December,  1884.  A  committee  consisting  of 
Rev.  George  W.  Mechlin,  D.  D.,  Rev.  Henry  L.  Mayers,  R.ev. 
Samuel  J.  Glass,  Rev.  J.  Horner  Kerr,  and  Elder  Robert  S. 
Slaymaker  and  Samuel  S.  Caldwell  met  in  the  town  hall  at  the 
time  appointed,  and  in  accordance  with  the  motion  of  the  Presby- 
tery proceeded  to  organize  a  Second  Presbyterian  Church.  After 
devotional  exercises  the  action  of  the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning  in 
constituting  the  committee  and  the  object  of  the  meeting  were 
briefly  stated.  Forty -two  members  of  the  United  Presbyterian 
Church  of  Kittanning  presented  certificates  of  regular  dismissal  by 
the  provisional  session  of  the  United  Presbyterian  Church.  This 
provisional  session  had  been  appointed  by  the  United  Presbyterian 
Presbytery  of  Butler  to  act  temporarily  for  the  United  Presbyterian 
Church  of  Kittanning. 

The  following  is  a  full  list  of  the  names  of  those  presenting  cer- 
tificates: Mrs.  Margaret  Henry,  Miss  Mary  J.  Henry,  Mrs.  E.  A. 
Campbell,  Miss  E.  A.  Campbell,  Miss  Libbie  Campbell,  Mrs.  E. 
A.  Sloan,  Miss  E.  A.  Sloan,  Miss  M.  Q.  Sloan,  Mr.  William 
Gates,  Mrs.  Jennie  B.  Gates,  Mr.  William  Nesbit,  Mrs.  William 
Nesbit,  Mr.  James  D.  Nesbit,  Mrs.  Jessie  B.  Nesbit,  Miss  Maggie 
L.  Nesbit,  Miss  Annie  D.  Nesbit,  Mr.  Charles  S.  Bovard,  Mrs. 
Alice  A.  Bovard,  Miss  Mary  J.  Shannon,  Mr.  James  H.  McCain, 


246  HiSTORV  OF  the: 


Mrs.  Lottie  E.  McCain,  Mrs.  Amy  Glass,  Mr.  Samuel  Glass,  Mrs. 
Hannah  Glass,  Mr.  James  M.  King,  Mrs.  Mary  Ross,  Mrs.  Phccbe 
Nulton,  Miss  N.  J.  Copley,  Miss  Hannah  E.  Coplc\ ,  Mr.  John 
J.  Dunmire,  IVfrs.  Kitty  Dunmirc,  Mr.  James  H.  Monroe,  Mrs.. 
James  H,  Monroe,  Mr.  R.  H.  Hopkins,  Mrs.  R.  H.  Hopkins, 
Mrs  Margaret  Cowan,  Mrs.  E.  C.  Alward,  Mrs.  L.  V.  Lightcap, 
Mrs.  G.  T.  Dixon,  Mrs.  Janet  Foulis,  Mrs.  Wythington  Reynolds,. 
Mrs.  W.  H.  H.  Piper.  In  addition  to  these  Mr.  D.  A.  Ralston  and 
wife  appeared  before  the  committee,  and  were  received  upon  con- 
fession of  their  faith  in  Christ.  All  the  above  named  persons  then 
joined  hands  and  pledged  themselves  to  support  each  other  in  their 
relation  as  members  of  the  Second  Presbyterian  Church  of  Kittan- 
ning. 

Mr,  William  Gates,  Mr.  Charles  S.  Bovard,  Mr.  William 
Nesbit  and  Mr.  James  H.  McCain  were  elected  elders  in  the  new 
body.  As  these  gentlemen  had  all  been  ordained  in  the  United 
Presbyterian  Church,  they  were  at  once  installed.  Tlie  committee 
then,  through  its  moderator,  Rev.  George  W.  Mechlin,  D.  D., 
declared  the  Second  Presbyterian  Church  of  Kittanning  duly 
organized.  Several  addresses  were  delivered  by  members  of  the 
committee,  and  the  exercises  were  concluded  with  prayer  by  Rev. 
Samuel  J.  Glass. 

The  first  congregational  meeting  was  held  upon  the  same  da}', 
December  31,  1884.  The  Rev.  Henry  L.  Mayers  acted  as  moder- 
ator. A  unanimous  call  was  extended  to  the  Rev.  Samuel  J.  Glass. 
At  this  meeting,  it  was  decided  to  elect  a  Board  of  Trustees,  con- 
sisting of  not  more  than  seven  nor  less  than  three  members.  Tiie 
following  persons  were  chosen:  Mr.  D.  A.  Ralston,  Mr.  W.  L. 
Peart,  Mr.  W.  H.  H.  Piper,  Mr.  W.  B.  Meredith,  Mr.  John 
Muckle,  Mr.  James  G.  Henry,  The  full  quota  of  seven  members 
was  afterwards  filled  out  by  the  election  of  Mr.  E.  R.  McConnell. 
A  vote  of  thanks  was  tendered  the  committee  of  the  Presbytery  for 
the  excellent  manner  in  which  they  discharged  their  duty  in 
organizing  the  Second  Presbyterian  Church.  The  meeting 
adjourned  with  the  singing  of  Bishop  Ken's  doxology. 

At  a  congregational  meeting,  held  April  19,  1885,  the  Board  of 
Trustees  made  a  report  in  regard  to  action,  which  they  had  taken 
in  procuring  a  plot  of  ground  upon  which  to  erect  a  house  of  wor- 
ship.    Plans  and  specifications  were  submitted  to  the  congregation, 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  247 

and  a  building:  committee  was  chosen,  consisting  of  Mr.  D.  A. 
Ralston,  Mr.  James  H.  McCain  and  Mr.  William  Gates.  A  finance 
-committee  was  also  appointed,  consisting  of  Mr.  W.  H.  H.  Piper, 
Mr.  J.  P.  Colter,  Mr.  J.  Mnckle  and  Mr.  C.  S.  Bovard.  These 
committees  satisfactorily  fulfilled  their  trust.  The  Second  Church 
has  now  a  pleasant  building,  in  an  excellent  situation  at  the  corner 
of  McKean  and  Arch  streets.  The  building  was  erected  at  a  cost 
of  thirty-five  hundred  dollars;  eighteen  hundred  dollars  was  paid 
for  the  lot,  so  that  the  cost  of  both  building  and  lot  amounted  to 
fifty-three  hundred  dollars. 

The  first  pastor  vv^as  the  Rev.  Samuel  J.  Glass.  Mr.  Glass  was 
born  near  Bennington,  Allegheny  county,  Pa.,  February  26,  1854, 
He  attended  the  local  schools  of  the  district,  also  an  academy  near 
Mansfield,  Pa.,  preparatory  to  entering  the  Western  University  of 
Pennsylvania.  Mr.  Glass  graduated  from  the  university  in  1875, 
He  then  began  the  study  of  theology  in  the  United  Presbyterian 
Seminary  of  Allegheny,  and  completed  the  course  of  instruction  in 
March,  1877.  In  the  same  month  he  was  licensed  to  preach  the 
gospel.  Mr.  Glass  was  married  November  30,  1876,  to  Miss  Amy 
Ewing.  On  the  11th  of  June,  1878,  he  was  ordained  and  installed 
pastor  of  the  United  Presbyterian  Church  of  Kittanning,  Pa.  Mr, 
Glass  was  installed  pastor  of  the  Second  Presbyterian  Church, 
January  12,  1885.  He  resigned  this  charge  in  October,  1886,  to 
take  charge  of  the  Knoxville  Church,  Pittsburgh.  From  this 
church  again  he  was  soon  called,  and  is  now  pastor  of  the  Presby- 
terian Church  of  Brookville,  Pa. 

Rev.  DeWitt  M.  Benham,  the  present  pastor  of  the  Second 
Presbyterian  Church  of  Kittanning,  was  born  in  Marysville,  Cal., 
September  8,  1862.  He  studied  at  Beaver,  Pa.;  graduated  from 
Westminster  College  in  1883;  taught  one  year  in  Jefferson 
Academy,  Canonsburg;  entered  the  Western  Theological  Semin- 
ary, Allegheny;  remained  there  two  years,  graduating  from  Union 
Theological  Seminary,  New  York,  May  10,  1887.  Mr.  Benham 
was  licensed  to  preach  by  the  Presbytery  of  Shenango  at  the 
spring  session  of  1886.  He  was  ordained  by  the  Presbytery  ot 
Kittanning  at  West  Lebanon,  October  13,  1877,  and  was  installed 
in  his  present  charge  November,  1,  1887. 

The  elders  chosen  at  the  organization  of  the  church  as  above 
noted  still  constitute  the  session. 


248  HISTORY    OF    THE 


The  Sabbath  School  has,  since  the  org^anization  of  the  church, 
been  under  tho'  superintendence  of  Mr.  William  Gates. 

Tlie  membership  of  the  church  as  reported  in  1888,  is  eighty- 
five.  The  organization,  though  as  yet  lacking  age  and  numerical 
strength,  has  a  hopeful  outlook. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  249 


LEECHBURG. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY  REV.  D.  H.  SLOAN. 


fTTTTTTTTTTTTI 


INTRODUCTORY. 


The  tract  of  land  on  which  the  town  of  Leechburg  stands  was 
originally  surveyed  in  1773,  and  was  designated  by  the  name  of 
"  Friendship."  It  was  patented  to  White  Matlock  in  1783,  and 
was  then  designated  as  "  White  Plains."  Passing  through 
several  hands,  it  came  at  length  into  the  possession  of  David  Leech 
who,  about  1828,  laid  out  a  town  which  he  called  Leechburg.  In 
the  time  of  the  Pennsylvania  canal  it  was  an  important  point,  Mr. 
Leech  having  constructed  here  and  run  upon  that  thoroughfare,  a 
line  of  boats.  During  the  fii"st  fifty  years  of  its  existence,  Leech- 
burg grew  to  a  village  of  four  or  five  hundred  inhabitants.  With 
the  location  here  of  an  iron-works  in  1878,  it  began  a  nevv'  growth, 
having  in  1880  over  eleven  hundred  inhabitants.  Since  then  other 
business  enterprises  have  been  started,  and  the  population  is  about 
1,900,  or,  including  Ashbaugh  across  the  river  and  other  neighbor- 
ing hamlets,  about  2,500.  Leechburg  became  an  incorporated 
borough  in  1850. 

The  first  Presbyterian  families  in  and  about  the  place  had  their 
membership  in  the  church  at  Freeport,  seven  miles  distant.  By 
these  persons,  in  the  year  1843,  a  subscription  was  raised  and 
occasional  preaching  was  obtained  from  Rev.  Samuel  Caldwell, 
tlien  pastor  of  the  church  at  Freeport.  About  this  time  the  Pres- 
l)ytery  ot  Blairsville,  in  whose  bounds  Leechburg  was  located, 
appointed  Rev.  A,  Donaldson  a  committee  to  visit  the  place  and 
report  whether  it  were  needful  and  expedient  that  a  church  be 
organized  there.     His  report,  it  is  presumed,  was  favorable. 

33 


250  HISTORY    OF    THE 


ORGANIZATION. 

From  the  records  of  Blairsville  Presbytery  it  appears 
that  while  that  body  was  in  session  at  Currie's  Run,  April  10, 
1844,  "  A  petition  was  presented  from  a  number  of  the  inhabitants 
of  Leechburg  asking  for  an  organization  for  a  church  in  said 
village."  The  request  was  granted,  and  Messrs.  David  Kirkpat- 
rick,  Levi  M.  Graves  and  Watson  Hughes,  ministers,  and  John 
Christy,  James  Paul  and  William  James,  elders,  were  appointed  a 
committee  to  organize  a  churoh  there  on  Wednesday,  the  24th 
instant.  At  the  appointed  time,  April  24,  1844,  the  committee 
appeared  and  the  First  Presbyterian  Church  of  Leechburg  was  duly 
organized.  The  services  were  held  in  a  little  frame  school-house 
built  by  Mr.  David  Leech  about  1829  on  a  lot  back  of  that  on 
which  the  M.  E.  church  now  stands,  and  not  far  from  the  site  of 
the  presr^it  school-house.  The  church  at  its  organization  consisted 
of  the  following  twelve  members,  viz :  Alexander  Gordon,  Sarah 
E.  Gordon,  William  JSloore,  Mary  Moore,  Margaret  Anderson, 
'  Elizabeth  Bole,  Mary  Klingensmith,  Hannah  Metzlar,  Joshua 
Cooper,  Sarah  Ann  Cooper,  Eliza  Wingard  and  Anna  Hawk.  Of 
these  original  members  three  yet  remain  (1888),  viz:  Elizabeth 
Bole,  Sarah  E.  Gordon  and  Margaret  Anderson. 

HOUSES    OF    WORSHIP. 

The  first  religious  services  of  the  congi'cgation  were  held  in  the 
school-house  already  mentioned.  Then  for  several  years  the  public 
school-house,  a  one-story  frame  building  still  standing  on  Main 
street,  and  lately  owned  by  Lewis  Bowers,  was  occupied.  After 
vthis,  by  arrangement  with  the  Lutheran  congregation  of  the  place, 
services  were  held  in  their  church,  still  standing,  though  about  to 
give  place  to  a  new  building.  At  that  time  the  Lutheran  congre- 
gation was  undivided  and  bore  the  name,  as  one  branch  yet  does,  of 
"  Hebron  Evangelical." 

First  church.  In  the  early  part  of  Mr.  Leason's  pastorate,  the 
congregation  resolved  to  erect  for  themselves  a  house  of  worship. 
On  a  lot  given  to  the  congregation  by  Mr.  David  Leech  and  situ- 
ated on  the  north-west  corner  of  Main  and  First  streets,  a  church 
building  was  accordingly  erected  at  a  cash  expense  of  about  $1,500. 
This  edifice  was  of  brick,  one  story,  and  in  size  about  forty-four  by 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  251 

fifty-four  feet.  It  was  dedicated  November  30,  1851.  It  was 
re-roofed  and  otherwise  repaired  in  1869  at  an  expense  of  about 
$300.  Again  in  1873  it  was  furnished  with  new  windows  and 
otherwise  refitted  at  an  expense  of  about  $700. 

Second  church.  As  years  went  on  and  the  congregation 
increased,  there  was  a  growing  feehng  that  this  house  of  worship, 
both  as  to  size  and  conveniences,  was  not  equal  to  tlie  requirements 
of.  the  congregation.  Accordingly,  early  in  the  year  1881,  it  was 
resolved  that  a  new  house  of  worship  should  be  erected.  A  half 
lot  of  ground  adjoining  the  church  lot.  was  purchased  b}'  Alex. 
Gordon  from  John  Young  and  given  to  the  congregation.  The 
building  committee  was  Alex.  Gordon,  John  P.  Klingensmith, 
Thomas  S.  Irwin  and  H.  H.  VVray,  of  whom  the  first  named  was 
made  treasurer.  A.  J.  Elliott,  of  Leechburg,  and  a  member  of  the 
congregation,  became  the  contractor.  The  extreme  width  of  this 
building  in  front  is  forty-six  feet.  Its  length,  including  recess  back 
of  the  pulpit  is  eighty-three  feet.  It  is  of  brick,  two  stories  in 
height,  having  a  tower  at  the  south-east  corner  terminating  in  a 
spire  about  130  feet  in  height.  The  lower  story  is  divided  into 
vestibule,  class  rooms,  and  lecture  room.  The  audience  I'oom  has  a 
seating  capacity  of  about  500.  The  entire  cost  of  the  building, 
including  furnit-hing  and  value  of  lots,  was  about  $12,600,  all  of 
which  was  paid  or  pledged  before  the  day  of  dedication.  The 
dedication  services  were  held  April  25,  1882,  Rev.  D.  Hall,  D.  D., 
preaching  the  sermon  from  "  It  is  finished,"  and  Rev.  A.  Donald- 
son, D.  D.,  offering  the  dedicatory  prayer.  As  the  Presbyiery  of 
Kittanning  was  to  convene  on  the  afternoon  of  the  same  day,  most 
of  the  members  were  present,  and  numbers  of  them  participated  in 
the  services.  Two  years  ago  the  lecture  and  class  rooms  were 
carpeted  and  furnished  w^itli  chairs.  Still  more  recently  a  bell  has 
been  placed  in  the  tower.  It  is  a  "  McShane'"  weighing  1,612 
pounds  and  of  excellent  tone.  Some  new  pews  also  have  been 
put  in  place  to  meet  the  demand  for  sittings. 

PASTORS    AND    SUPPLIES. 

Suf -plies.  From  the  time  of  organization  to  April,  1845,  Rev. 
Samuel  Caldwell  preached  one-third  of  the  time  as  a  supply.  Then 
Rev.  Levi  M.  Graves  was  stated  supply  until  about  the  close  of 
1846.   Mr.  Thomas  Black,  a  licentiate  of  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville, 


252  HISTORY    OF    THE 


followed  as  a  stated  supply,  with  prospect  of  settlement,  for 
about  six  months,  his  term  of  service  closing  with  his  lamented 
death.  May  23,  1847.  He  died  of  pneumonia,  contracted,  it  is 
believed,  while  on  his  way  by  canal-iioat  from  the  Seminary  in 
Allegheny  to  this  place,  after  having  been  caught  in  a  heavy  rain. 
After  this  Rev.  Watson  Hughes,  and  Messrs.  Wm.  F.  Kean  and 
Andrew  McElwain,  then  licentiates,  supplied  the  church  for  short 
periods  of  perhaps  about  three  months  each.  Then  the  names  of 
Revs.  J.  M.  Hastings,  A.  B.  Quay,  W  W.  Woodend,  C.  B. 
Bristol  and  Watson  Johnston  appear  in  order  as  supplies  on  com- 
munion occasions  to  June  2,  1850. 

First  pastor.  The  latter  part  of  the  year  1850,  Rev.  Thomas 
Sharp  Leason  began  his  labors  as  a  supply,  and,  having  accepted  a 
call  from  the  congregation,  was  installed  as  its  first  pastor,  January 
27,  1851,  Rev.  S.  M.  McClung  officiating.  He  also  took  charge  of 
the  Pine  Run  church,  about  five  miles  distant,  giving  half  of  his 
labors  to  each  church  for  about  three  years,  and  afterwards  two- 
thirds  to  Leechburg  and  one-third  to  Pine  Run.  His  pastorate 
continued  for  about  seven  years  and  a  half,  or  until  June',  1858. 
Mr.  Leason  was  a  scholarly,  argumentative,  and  fervid  preacher  of 
the  gospel  of  Christ.  He  was  born  in  Butler  county.  Pa.,  x'Vpril 
29,  1817;  graduated  from  Washington  College  in  1844,  and  from 
the  W.  T.  Seminary  m  1847,  and  was  ordained  by  the  Presbytery 
of  Zanesville,  June,  1848.  For  about  two  years  before  coming  here 
he  was  settled  at  Marietta,  Ohio.  Since  1860  he  has  resided  at 
Brookville,  Pa.,  having  charge  of  the  churches  of  Mt.  Tabor  and 
Mill  Creek  in  the  vicinity  of  that  place. 

Second  -pastor.  During  the  winter  following  Mr.  Leason's 
release,  the  church  was  supplied  by  Mr,  James  Ewing  Caruthers, 
then  a  licentiate  of  the  Presbytery  of  Saltsburg  and  a  student  in 
the  Semmary  at  Allegheny.  Having  completed  his  course  he 
accepted  calls  for  half  time  each  from  this  church  and  Boiling 
Spring,  and  was  installed  over  the  charge  at  the  latter  place,  May 
12,  1859.  He  was  released  from  Boiling  Spring,  April  23,  1867, 
giving  then  his  entire  time  to  Leechburg  until  October  4,  1870, 
when,  thinking  a  change  of  location  might  be  beneficial  to  his 
enfeebled  health,  he  sought  and  obtained  release.  He  was  an 
earnest,  pointed  and  practical  preacher,  and  a  tender  and  untiring 
pastor.     His  piety  was  fervent  and  pronounced.     He  was  a  man  of 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTAI^NHSTG.  253 

•strong  convictions,  and  though  a  formidable  antagonist,  always 
•commanding  I'espect  by  his  fairness  and  transparent  sincerity.  He 
was  a  zealous  promoter  of  tl^e  cause  of  education  and  of  temper- 
ance. He  left  his  charge  here  and  the  Presbytery  with  reluctance 
and  regret,  making  his  request  for  release  in  Presbytery  with 
emotion  that  almost  choked  his  utterance.  He  was  born  in  West- 
moreland county,  Pa.,  May  6,  1821;  served  for  a  time  as  -uling 
elder  in  Rural  Valley  church;  graduated  from  Jefferson  college  in 

1857,  and  from  W.  T.   Seminary  in  1859;  was  licensed  April  7, 

1858,  and  ordained  by  Presbytery  of  Saltsburg,  May  12,  1859. 
For  a  short  time  from  June,  1858,  he  was  stated  sujDply  of  the 
•churches  of  Livermore  and  Clarksburg.  From  Leechburg  he 
went  directly  to  Yates  City,  111.,  and  was  pastor  of  the  church 
there  until  some  time  in  1874.  Leaving  his  charge  there  and 
returning  to  this  region,  he  was  abundant  in  labors  in  vacant 
churches  until  the  time  of  his  sudden  death,  near  Poland,  O.,  March 
7,1875.  Of  the  closing  of  his  career  one  has  written:  "All 
through  his  brief  illness  he  was  remarkably  free  from  care  and 
anxiety  for  himself  or  for  his  family.  He  spoke  lovingly  and 
trustingl}^  of  his  heavenly  Father's  wisdom  and  goodness  in  deal- 
ing with  him,  and  had  not  the  shadow  of  a  doubt  or  fear  for  the 
future.  Like  a  good  soldier,  he  fell  at  his  post,  and  with  the 
gospel  harness  on,  having  had  an  appointment  to  hold  a  com- 
munion the  day  on  which  he  died."  In  December  before  his  death 
he  visited  his  old  charge  here,  and  on  the  20th  of  that  month  he 
preached  with  his  wonted  fervor  and  directness  both  morning  and 
evening.  He  was  a  man  of  stalwart  frame  and  of  robust  constitu- 
tion only  for  an  asthmatic  affection  which  for  a  number  of  years 
impaired  his  health  and  finally  caused  his  death.  His  wife  and  two 
children,  a  son  and  a  daughter,  survive  him.  The  son,  James  B., 
entered  the  ministry  in  1887  and  is  settled  in  the  Presbytery  of 
Clarion. 

Thh-d pastor.  For  about  a  year  after  the  release  of  Mr. 
Caruthers,  the  church  had  supplies,  a  very  considerable  number  of 
brethren  preaching  a  Sabbath  or  two.  A  length,  by  invitation  of 
the  session,  on  the  8th  of  October,  1871,  Mr.  David  Harvey  Sloan, 
then  a  licentiate  of  the  Presbytery  of  Allegheny  (since  Butler), 
and  at  that  time  principal  of  the  State  Lick  Classical  Institute, 
began  to  supply  the  church  statedly   for  six   months.     At  the  end 


254  HrSTORY    OF    TITE 


of  that  time  a  call  was  made  out,  but  not  seeing  his  way  clear  to- 
accept  this,  he  was  retained  as  supply  until  April,  1873.  At  that 
time  he  accepted  the  call  from  Leechburg  for  three-fourths  of  his- 
time  and  a  call  from  Clinton  for  the  remaining  fourth,  and  was- 
installed  in  each  church,  April  28,  1873.  This  arrangement  con- 
tinued until  June  29,  1887,  when  he  was  released  from  Clinton,  the 
congregation  at  Leechburg  having  petitioned  Presbytery  for  his^ 
entire  time.  At  this  writing  his  actual  pastorate  covers'  a  period  of 
fifteen  years,  his  virtual  pastorate,  seventeen  and  a  half.  He  wa& 
born  at  Slate  Lick,  Pa.,  January  26,  1836;  graduated  from  Wash- 
ington College  in  1859;  was  in  W.  T.  Seminary  1861-2;  license'? 
by  Presbytery  of  Allegheny  (now  Butler),  x^pril  15,  1864;  Prin- 
cipal of  Dunlap's  Creek  Academy,  1862-66,  and  of  Slate  Lick 
Classical  Institute,  1866-72;  and  was  ordained  as  an  evangelist  by- 
the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning  v^^hile  serving  as  a  supply  to  this^ 
church,  July  2,  1872.  Since  1879  he  has  been  Stated  Clerk  of 
Presbytery. 

RULING    ELDERS. 

At  the  time  of  the  organization  of  the  church,  i\lexander 
Gordon,  Esq.,  and  William  Moore  were  chosen  and  ordained  as 
elders  and  both  continued  to  serve  until  removed  by  death,  Mr. 
Moore's  death  occurring,  June  2, 1877,  and  Mr.  Gordon's,  April  17, 
1885.  Mr.  Gordon  was  a  man  of  more  than  ordinary  force  and 
ability.  He  was  singularly  devoted  to  his  church  and  an  untiring 
and  efficient  promoter  of  its  enterprises.  Mr.  Moore  was  re- 
cognized by  all  who  knew  him  as  faithful  and  consistent.  At  the 
next  election  Theodore  Noble  and  Samuel  Crosby  were  chosen, 
having  both  been  previously  ordained  to  the  eldership.  Their 
terms  of  service  date  from  November  7,  1846.  Mr.  Noble's  con- 
nection with  the  church  was  short,  as  his  name  appears  only  a  time 
or  two  in  connection  with  meetings  of  session.  The  date  of  his 
removal  has  not  been  noted.  Mr.  Crosby  continued  in  faithful  and 
honored  service  until  about  two  year's  previous  to  his  death,  when 
infirm  health  deprived  him  of  the  privilege  of  attendance  upon  any 
church  services.  His  death  occurred  January  1,  1884.  Thirteen 
years  passed  without  any  further  addition  to  the  session.  In  1859, 
an  election  was  held,  resulting  in  the  choice  of  John  Paul,  Joshua 


PRESBYTERY    GE    KITTANNING.  2^55 

-Anderson,  James  Bratton  Parks,  and  Wm.  Fitzgerald.  The  ordi- 
•nation  of  the  three  fii'st  named  took  place  June  17,  1859,  and  that 
of  the  last,  December  4th  of  the  same  year.  Mr.  Paul  was  dismissed 
to  the  church  at  Warren  (now  Apollo)  January  8,  1864.  Mr.  Fitz- 
gerald having  entered  the  army  as  first  lieutenant,  Co.  C,  139th 
Regiment,  Pa.  Volunteers,  contracted  disease  amid  the  exposure 
and  privation  of  the  camp^  and  died  in  Carver  hospital,  near  Wash- 
jngton,  D.  C,  November  26,  1862.  His  was  the  first  death  of  an 
elder  of  this  church,  and  at  the  time  of  his  death  he  was  the 
youngest  member  of  the  session.  His  early  decease  was  much 
lamented.  Joshua  Anderson,  prompt,  -devout,  cheerful,  wise  in 
-counsel,  continued  to  serve  the  church  until  his  death,  August  lU, 
1881.  Mr.  Parks  still  survives  as  the  oldest  member  of  session.  In 
1877,  Peter  Cline  and  Robert  P.  Hunter,  M.  D.,  were  chosen  to 
the  eldership,  being  ordained  and  installed  December  2  of  that 
year.  Five  years  later  occurred  another  election,  at  which  Thomas 
S.  Irwin,  Robert  Parks  and  S.  Harvey  Anderson  were  chosen. 
They  were  ordained  and  installed  January  14,  1883.  The  six 
persons  last  named  constitute  the  present  session. 

SERVICE    OF    PRAISE. 

The  Assembly's  collection  of  "  Psalms  and  Hymns  "  was  intro- 
duced into  the  congregation  at  the  beginning.  For  a  time  A. 
'Gordon  "  lined  out,"  and  Samuel  Crosby  and  Samuel  McGeary  led 
the  singing.  While  Mn  Graves  was  serving  as  a  supply,  "lining 
out "  was  dispensed  with.  December  25,1851,  it  "was  resolved 
that  for  the  purpose  of  singing  the  praises  of  God  more  melodious- 
ly within  his  sanctuary,  a  number  of  pious  male  and  female  youths 
who  understand  the  rudiments  of  music  and  have  cultivated  their 
voices  in  singing,  be  set  apart  to  lead  in  that  pleasing  and  delight- 
ful service."  This  was  the  origin  of  the  choir.  Messrs.  A.  S. 
Thorne  and  Wm.  James  served  for  a  time  respectively  as  leaders. 
James  B.  Parks  was  the  first  officially  designated  leader,  and  served 
until  about  1876,  except  a  short  time  about  1865,  when  Jas.  H. 
Hawk  acted  as  leader.  From  about  1876  onward  for  two  years,  J. 
S.  Bowser  was  leader,  since  which  time  the  place  has  been  filled 
by  J.  H.  Parks.  In  1876  an  organ  was  introduced  without  opposi- 
tion, and  in  1882,  a  larger  one  was  procured,  both  reed  instruments. 
The  first  organist  was  Mattie  A.  Crosby  (Mrs.  Dr.  Smith),       She 


256  HISTORY    OF    THE 


was  succeeded  for  a  short  time  each  by  SMsan  T.  Bredin  (Mrs.  J, 
S.  Bowser),  and  Anna  Bole  (Mrs,  Edward  Sobei).  For  about 
nine  year^  to  1887  the  place  was  filled  by  Bernard  R.  Parr,  and 
since  then  by  Lucy  Parr.  Since  about  1880,  in  the  Sabbath  School^ 
James  F.  Millen  has  been  leader  of  the  choir,  and  Sarah  Boyd 
(Mrs.  Robert  Jack),  May  Latimer  (Mrs,  Chas.  Taylor),  and 
Nettie  Wilson,  in  turn,  have  been  organists. 

SABBATH    SCHOOL. 

From  the  organization  of  the  church  a  Sabbath  School  has 
been  maintained.  Until  about  1873  it  was  open  during  the  summer 
only.  Since  then  it  has  been  open  the  entire  year.  For  many 
years  from  the  beginning  Alex.  Gordon  was  its  f:.ithful  superin- 
tendent. Previous  to  1874,  S.  S.  Boyd  and  Ja^;.  B.  Parks  served  a 
year  or  two  each.  From  1874  to  1881  inclusive.  Rev.  D.  H, 
Sloan  filled  the  office.  In  1882,  Dr.  R.  P.  Hunter  became  and 
still  remains  superintendent.  The  oflSce  of  assistant  superintend- 
ent lias  been  filled  by  Marshall  Irwin,  James  F.  McKee,  H.  C. 
Pavitt,  VV.  O.  Anderson,  S.  H.  Anderson,  and  others.  Since  1877 
John  P.  Klingensmith  has  been  secretary  and  treasurer.  In  I860,, 
the  school  reported  eighty  members  and  mone}-  collected,  $25;  in 
1875,180  members  and  $22;  in  1887,  529  members  and  $184. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

A  Ladies'  Foreign  Missionary  Society  was  organized  January 
7,  1874.  Its  yearly  contributions  to  the  cause  have  been  $100,  and 
at  times  more.  It  has  a  membership  of  aliout  100.  March  12, 
1882,  a  Home  Mission  Society,  composed  largely  of  young  ladies 
and  childi-en,  was  organized.  The  annual  contributions  of  this 
society  have  been  about  $30,  and  it  has  a  membership  of  about  75. 

Six  of  the  sons  of  this  church  have  entered  the  ministry,  as  fol- 
lows; Thomas  B.  Anderson,  John  K.  McKallip,  Jacob  J.  Hawk, 
James  Henry  Hawk,  John  C.  McCracken  and  Robert  E.  Ander- 
son. To  this  list  might  be  added  the  name  of  James  B.  Caruthers, 
whose  early  youth  vras  spent  here. 

The  first  trustees  of  the  congregation,  according  to  a  svstem  of 
rotation  in  office,  so  far  as  appears,  were  J.  B.  Parks,  William 
Cochran,  John  B.  Anderson,  John  S.  Bole,  H.  M.  Shattuck  and  J, 
R.  Parr,  and  their  first  recorded  meeting  was  held  January  1,  1851. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  257 

Frum  the  organization  of  the  church  to  1850,  and  again  from 
1857  to  1885,  the  year  of  his  deatli,  Alexander  Gordon  was  the 
efficient  treasurer  of  the  congregation.  During  the  intermediate 
period  from  1850  to  1857,  WilHam  Fitzgerald  was  treasurer. 
From  April,  1885,  to  April,  1887,  the  office  was  filled  by  Jolui  P. 
Klingensmith,  and  since  the  last  date  by  James  F.  McCracken. 

From  the  organization  of  the  church  to  the  time  of  his  death, 
Alexand'.r  Gordon  was  clerk  of  the  session,  and  the  records,  as  kept 
by  him,  arc  proof  of  his  rare  qualifications  fo''  ^.hat  important  office. 
Seldom  are  rec®rds  seen  exhibiting  so  much  order  and  neatness.  He 
wrote  a  very  smooth  and  legil>le  hand,  retaininji"  his  >kill  in  very 
large  degree  almost  to  the  end  of  his  exceptionally  long  life.  Since 
his  death,  Dr.  R.  P.  Hunter  has  been  clerk  of  the  session. 

At  the  beginning  of  1886,  a  congregational  clerk  was  chosen. 
This  office  was  filled  by  James  F.  McKee  to  May,  1888,  when, 
having  removed,  B.  R.  Parr  was  chosen  in  his  stead. 

In  1885,  a  charter  of  incorporation  for  the  church  was  obtained 
from  the  Court  of  Armstrong  county.  The  application  was  sio-ned 
by  Joseph  G.  Beale,  R.  P.  Hunter,  J.  H.  Parks,  Thomas  S.  Irwin, 
J.  S.  Bole  and  H.  H.  Wray.  The  trustees  named  in  it  are  John 
P.  Klingensmith,  Robert  G.  Parks,  S.  M.  Crosby,  John  E.  Piper, 
A.  J.  Elliott  and  W.  R.  Trout.  The  decree  of  the  court  bears 
date  of  September  9,  1885.  The  charter  provides  that  the  official 
name  of  the  corporation  shall  be  "  The  First  Presbyteiian  Church 
of  Leechburg."  Tiie  time  for  the  annual  meeting  is  the  second 
Tuesu  ly  in  January. 

The  church  has  enjoyed  several  seasons  of  quickened  interest, 
attended  by  encouragingly  large  additions.  One  of  these  was  early  in 
1860.  At  a  communion  held  January  12th  of  that  year,  there  were 
24  additions  on  profession  of  faith;  December 23,  1865,  there  were 
15;  February  8,  1874,  there  were  17. 

The  whole  number  of  names  on  the  roll  of  communicants  is 
722.     The  number  now  on  the  roll  is  280. 

The  total  number  of  joersons  baptized  has  been  508 — 62  adults 
and  441  children. 

Record  of  the  contributions  of  the  church  seems  to  be  obtainable 
only  for  twenty-five  years  past.  The  following  is  a  summary  of  con- 
tributions for  this  period  :  Home  Missions,  $1,685 ;  Foreign  Missions 


33 


258  lliSTOKY    OF    THE 

$8,262;  Publication,  $396;  Education,  $428;  Church  Erection, 
$455;  Ministerial  Relief,  $858;  Freedmen,  $878;  vSustentation  (18 
years),  $121;  Colle^i^es  (5  years),  $72;  Assembly's  Fund,  $296; 
Congregational  Expenses,  $85,798;  Miscellaneous,  $751.  Total, 
$48,942. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING,  259 


MAHONING. 


BY    REV.    S.    A.    HUGHES. 


December  8,  1860,  the  church  of  Mahoning  was  organized  by 
a  committee  of  the  Presbytery  of  Saltsburg,  previously  appointed 
for  that  purpose.  This  committee  consisted  of  WiUiam  F.  Morgan 
and  G.  W.  MechUn,  ministers,  and  Samuel  H.  Porter,  elder.  A 
sermon  was  preached  by  Rev.  G.  W.  Mechlin  from  John  10:  9 
"  I  am  the  door;  by  me  if  any  man  enter  in,  he  shall  be  saved  and 
shall  go  in  and  out  and  find  pasture."  After  sermon  the  following 
persons  were  received  as  members :  On  certificate,  James  Steele, 
Louisa  Steele,  Martha  Jane  Swartz,  Louisa  Patrick,  Sai-ah  E. 
Steele,  Isabella  Kurtz,  Emma  B.  Laughlin,  Maggie  Laughlin, 
Sarah  Jane  Graham;  on  examination,  Matthew  McMillan,  William 
Moses,  Nancy  Moses,  Lucinda  McMillan,  Eliza  Jane  Ready  and 
Margaret  Cassady.  James  Steele  was  elected  and  ordained  ruling 
elder.  In  the  evening  Rev.  W.  F.  Morgan  preached  from  the 
text  Matt.  3:2"  Repent  ye,  for  the  kingdom  of  heaven  is  at  hand.-" 

From  the  date  of  organization  until  the  fall  of  1867  there  is  no 
record,  but  the  church  was  regularly  supplied  during  all  this  time 
by  Rev.  L.  M.  Graves.  In  the  fall  of  this  year  Rev.  H.  Magill, 
having  received  and  accepted  a  call,  was  duly  installed  pastor.  The 
first  record  bears  date  October  12,  1867.  This  pastorate  continued 
to  the  spring  of  1872,  during  which  there  was  a  regular  and  health- 
ful growth  of  the  church.  Brother  Magill  resigned  the  charge  of 
Concord  and  Mahoning  to  accept  a  call  to  the  church  of  Apollo. 

From  this  date  to  the  fall  of  1873  the  church  was  supplied 
under   the   temporary  moderatorship  of   Rev.  T.    D.  Ewing.        In 


260  HISTORY    OF    THE 


September,  1873,  a  call  was  extended  by  the  church  to  Rev.  F.  E. 
Thompson.  He  accepted,  and  immediately  entered  upon  the  work 
of  pastor.  This  relation  continued  until  December,  1875,  and  was 
marked  with  the  same  steady  and  healthful  j^rowth.  In  December, 
1876,  an  invitation  was  given  to  Rev.  Mr.  Graybeil  to  supply  the 
church  halt  time  for  one  year.  It  does  not  appear  that  this  was 
fully  complied  with.  Rev.  T.  D.  Ewing  appearinj^  again  as  tem- 
porary moderator  of  the  session  during  1877-8.  In  March,  1879, 
a  committee  of  the  Presbytery,  consisting  of  Revs.  J.  J.  Francis 
and  B.  F.  Boyle,  appointed  for  the  purpose,  visited  the  church. 
Their  labors  were  abundantly  biassed,  resulting  in  an  accession  of 
thirty-five  to  the  churcii.  Why  is  it,  these  weak  churches  may  well 
ask,  that  there  is  not  more  of  this  blessed  work  done  by  Presbytery  ? 
At  this  time  Rev.  S.  A.  Hughes  became  stated  supply,  and  has 
continued  in  this  relation  to  date,  December,  1887.  [He  ceased  his 
labors,  however,  April,  1888]. 

At  the  time  of  organization  but  one,  James  Steele,  was  elected 
and  ordained  to  the  office  of  ruling  elder.  In  April,  1870,  Robert 
Thompson  and  S.  M.  Quigley  were  added  to  the  session  by  election 
and  ordination.  Then  again,  April  4,  1874,  D.  R.  Oliver  was 
chosen  and  duly  set  apart  to  this  office.  And  October  18,  1879, 
Joseph  C.  Steele  was  elected  and  ordained.  Of  these,  James 
Steele  and  Joseph  C.  Steele  have  withdrawn  by  letter,  leaving  in 
the  session  at  present  Messrs.  Thompson,  Quigley  and  Oliver. 

All  the  families  connected  with  the  c'inrch,  with  but  one 
exception,  live  from  two  to  five  miles  distant  from  the  church; 
hence  it  is  impossible  to  maintain  a  Sabbath  School  or  weekly 
prayer  meeting.  The  Sabbath  School  has  been  tried  but  without 
success. 

The  congregation  has  had  but  one  church  building,  erected  in 
,  11^  a  cost  of  about  $1,250.00.       The  house  is  frame,  40  by   50 


feet,  ceiling  12  feet. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  261 


MARION. 


TTTTTTTTITTTTTIT 


BY    REV.    J.    C.    AMBROSE. 


ORGANIZATION. 


The  Marion  Presbyterian  Church  was  organized  June  15, 1860. 
A  petition  signed  by  thirty-six  members  from  Gilgal  church  was 
presented  to  the  Saltsburg  Presbytery,  asking  for  an  organization. 
The  Presbytery  appointed  a  committee  consisting  of  Revs.  G.  W. 
Mechlin  and  J.  P.  Kennedy  and  elder  Joseph  Diven  to  complete 
an  organization,  A  meeting  was  held  in  the  barn  of  Mr,  James 
Richey,  when  a  sermon  was  preached  by  Rev.  J.  P.  Kennedy, 
from  the  text,  "  He  that  winneth  souls  is  wise,"  Prov.  11 :  30.  After 
the  sermon  an  organization  was  effected  consisting  of  forty -eight 
members,  two  being  received  upon  profession  of  their  faith  in 
Christ,  the  rest  by  letter.  The  following  day  four  more  were  re- 
ceived, making  in  all  a  membership  of  fifty-two. 

Following  is  a  list  of  the  original  members:  William  Anthony, 
M.  D.,  Jane  Anthony,  Maria  G.  Armor,  Mary  B.  Brady,  Hugh 
M.  Canon,  Mary  B.  Canon,  Jane  S.  Canon,  Samuel  Craig,  Jane 
Ci'aig,  James  Hunter,  Susan  Hunter,  Milton  Lowman,  William 
Midkirk,  Rebecca  Midkirk,  Elijah  Moore,  James  McGinit}',  Eliza- 
beth McGinity,  Keziah  McClusky,  David  McClusky,  Nancy 
McClusky,  Sarah  McClusky,  Mary  Park,  Robert  Park,  Sr., 
Mary  Park,  W.  N.  Prothero,  Harriet  Prothero,  Eliza  Rochester, 
William  G.  Stewart,  Andrew  J.  Stumpf,  Mary  J.  Stumpf,  Jane 
Sutor,  Agnes  Sutor,  John  Sutor,  Sr.,  Jane  Thompson,  Hiram 
Thomas,   Ann    Thomas,  Mary  J.  Thomas,  James  T.  Van    Horn, 


202  HISTOIJY    OF    THE 


Ellen  Van  Horn,  Rebecca  Work,  Harriet  Work,  Sophia  Work, 
Recca  M.  Work,  Hezekiah  Wood,  Jane  E.  Wood,  Robert 
Wyncoop,  Margaret  Wyncoop. 

HOUSE    OF    WORSHIP. 

Although  this  organization  w:is  not  formally  completed  until 
June  of  1860,  yet  there  had  been  preaching  in  this  neighborhood 
since  1839.  Rev.  John  Caruthers  began  preaching  at  that  time, 
holding  his  first  service  in  the  residence  of  Mr.  John  Park,  on  the 
present  site  of  Mafion.  Until  1871  the  congregation  worshiped  in 
private  houses,  barns  and  school  houses,  and  at  times  in  the  M.  E. 
church,  in  which  they  had  a  large  financial  Interest. 

In  1862,  the  lot  of  ground  upon  whic'n  the  present  church  build- 
ing stai.ds  w  as  purchased  of  James  Richey  fcr  $50.00,  and  in  1865 
a  lot  adjoining  this,  containing  a  quarter  of  an  acre,  was  given  to  the 
congregation  by  Mr.  McClenathen. 

The  present  church  building  was  begun  in  1868,  and  completed 
in  1871,  at  a  cost  of  $6,000.00.  It  is  a  plain  frame  building  with 
steeple.  It  has  a  lecture  room,  study  and  session  room  in  the  base- 
ment. The  main  audience  room  is  48  by  60  by  22  feet,  and  will 
seat  from  350  to  400  people. 

PASTORS    AND    SUPPLIES. 

The  first  pastor  of  this  church  was  Rev.  John  Caruthers.  He 
was  installed  July  10,  1861,  preaching  one-fourth  of  his  time  here, 
at  a  salary  of  $200.00  per  annum.  From  1868  he  preached  one- 
half  of  his  time  here,  and  his  salary  was  increased  to  $400.00.  H** 
served  the  church  from  this  time  until  October,  1872,  when  he  was 
released.  Mr.  Caruthers  was  born  in  Westmoreland  county.  Pa., 
May  5,  1807.  He  graduated  at  Washington  College,  1836,  and  at 
Western  Theological  Seminary,  1839;  licensed  by  Washington 
Presbytery,  April,  1839;  ordained,  June,  1840,  by  Blairsville  Pres- 
bytery. He  served  as  pastor  at  Gilsj^al  from  1840  to  1872;  Perry, 
1840  to  1854;  Rockbridge,  1869  to  1872.  The  time  of  his  service 
at  old  Gilgal  marked  the  brightest  period.  He  was  the  organizer 
of  Mt.  Pleasant,  Rockbridge  and  Marion.  During  his  pastorate  at 
Marion,  146  were  added  to  the  original  membership  of  the  church, 
eighty-six  by  certificate  and  sixty  by  profession,  and  at  the  close  of 
his    ministry  the    membership   was    one    hundred    and    thirty-two. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  263 

Father  Caruthers  was  married  twice,  March  24,  1840,  to  IVIiss 
Sophia  Huston,  and  January  1,  1867,  to  Miss  Mary  Kirkpatrick. 
After  leaving  Marion  he  never  was  able  to  preach  much.  He 
spent  his  last  days  at  Washington,  Pa.,  where,  after  a  lingering  ill- 
ness, he  passed  away,  November  27,  1880,  aged  seventy-three.  He 
fought  a  good  fight,  he  finished  his  course,  and  he  kept  the  faith. 

Rev.  J.  Logan  Sample  was  the  second  pastor.  He  began 
preaching  here  in  the  spring  of  1 873,  and  was  installed  September 
16th,  of  the  same  year.  He  served  the  church  until  April  28,  1880, 
when  the  pastoral  relation  was  dissolved,  since  which  time  he  has 
been  laboring  as  a  Home  Missionary  in  Dakota.  Under  Mr. 
Sample's  ministry  the  church  was  greatly  prospered.  Forty-five 
members  were  added  by  certificate  and  sixty-four  on  examination, 
making  a  total  increase  in  membership  of  one  hundred  and  nine. 
New  methods  of  church  work  were  organized  and  carried  on  very 
successfully,  and  the  heavy  debt  under  which  the  church  was  labor- 
ing was  considerably  reduced.  A  former  historian  speaking  of  this 
pastorate,  says:  "  One  error  inaugurated  during  this  pastorate  still 
leaves  its  mark  upon  the  congregation.  A  system  of  giving  any- 
thing or  nothing  was  proposed  b^  the  pastor  and  accepted  by  the 
people,  the  effect  of  which  was  to  cultivate  the  habit  of"  withhold- 
ing more  than  is  meet,  which  some  have  not  overcome  as  yet." 
The  above  arrangement  held  as  to  the  pastor's  salary  only. 

The  third  pastor.  Rev.  A.  H.  Jolly,  was  called  June  8,  1880, 
being  then  a  licentiate  of  Clarion  Presbytery.  He  was  ordained 
and  installed,  August  5th,  of  the  same  year.  Mr.  Jolly  served  the 
church  until  July  26,  1885,  when  the  pastoral  relation  was  dis- 
solved. His  work  here  was  greatly  blest.  The  debt  on  the  church 
was  cancelled,  and  the  church  building  was  remodeled  at  a  cost  of 
eight  hundred  and  fifty  dollars.  About  one  hundred  were  received 
into  the  church  during  this  pastorate. 

After  Mr.  Jolly  left,  Mr.  John  C.  Mechlin,  an  undergraduate 
of  the  Western  Seminary  and  a  licentiate  of  Kittanning  Presby- 
tery, served  the  church  as  supply  for  one  year,  from  May,  1886, 
until  May,  1887. 

The  fourth  and  present  pastor  is  Rev.  John  C.  Ambrose.  He 
was  a  licentiate  of  Kittannnig  Presbytery;  was  ordained,  June  '^8, 
1887;  received  the  call  from  the  church,  October  11,  1887,  and  was 
installed,   November  9,  following.  Rev.  D.  Hall,   D.  D.,  presiding, 


264  HISTORY    OF    THE 


Rev.  A.   T.   Bell  charging  the   pastor,  and    Rev.  N.    B.  Kelly  the 
people. 

RULING    ELDERS. 

The  elders  elected  when  the  church  w^as  organized  were  Robert 
Park,  who  was  an  elder  at  Gilgal,  J.  T.  Van  Horn,  William 
Prothero  and  William  Anthony,  M.  D.  Mr.  Park  was  excused 
from  the  active  duties  ol  office  in  1885,  on  account  of  infirmity  and 
age.  He  was  a  faithful  and  active  worker,  and  is  honored  and 
resj^ected  by  all  who  know  him.  Mr.  Van  Horn  is  yet  living,  and 
an  active  member  of  the  session.  Dr.  Anthony  was  dismissed  in 
April,  1865,  and  now  lives  in  Linn  county,  Kansas.  Mr.  Protnero 
is  at  present  an  elder  in  the  Presbyterian  Church  at  Dubois.  About 
1865,  Mr.  James  C.  McGinity  was  ordained  and  installed.  He 
continued  in  office  an  humble,  faithful  and  exemplary  man  until 
March  21,  1882,  when  he  was  called  away  by  death.  In  September, 
1867,  Mr.  James  S.  Martin,  who  had  formerly  been  an  elder  at 
East  Union,  was  elected,  and  continues  to  be  an  active  member  of 
the  session.  G.  J.  McHenry,  M.  D.,  William  T.  McCall  and 
Robert  Thompson  were  elected,  Januiuy,  1872.  Mr.  Thompson 
served  until  February  17,  1882,  when  God  called  him  to  his  reward. 
He  is  said  to  have  been  full  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  firm,  faithful,  pure. 
He  had  been  an  elder  at  Gilgal  before  elected  here,  and  was 
respected  by  all.  Mr.  McCall  served  until  October  28,  1886,  when 
God  called  him  also  to  go  up  higher.  Dr.  McHenry  is  at  present 
an  active  member  in  the  session.  Mr.  Adam  Campbell  and  Mr. 
Samuel  M.  Work  were  elected,  Septemb.  r  11,  1882,  and  ordained 
October  8th  of  the  same  year.  Mr.  Work  was  dismissed  to  Indiana 
Presbyterian  Church,  April  8,  1886.  Mr.  Campbell  is  at  present 
an  active  member.  The  present  session  consists  ot  Robert  Park, 
J.  T.  Van  Plorn,  James  S.  Martin,  George  J.  McHenry,'  M.  D., 
and  Adam  Campbell. 

The  following  is  a  list  of  the  Sunday  School  superintendents  in 
the  order  in  which  they  served:  J.  T.  Van  Horn,  J.  C.  McGinity, 
J.  S.  Martin,  C.  P.  McGara,  G.  J.  McHenry,  Rev.  J.  L.  Sample, 
G.J.  McHenry,  J.  M.  Lytle,  G.  J.  McHenry. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING,  265 


MECHANICSBURG. 


BY    ELDER   JAMES    m'mULI.EN,    M.    D. 

TTTTTTTITTTTTT^T 

This  church  is  located  in  the  village  whose  name  it  bears,  and 
was  the  first  organization  in  the  place.  It  was  organized  by  the 
Presbytery  of  Blairsville,  May  12,  1851,  the  committee  being  Rev. 
Samuel  Swan,  Rev.  John  H.  Kirkpatrick  and  elder  Wm.  G. 
Stewart,  M.  D. 

The  original  members  were  twenty-one  in  number,  as  follows, 
viz:  George  Robertson,  Margaret  Robertson,  Mary  McDonald, 
James  Dick,  Mary  Dick,  Elizabeth  Stewart,  Nancy  Wilkins, 
Eleanor  Wilkins,  Sr.,  Eleanor  Wilkins,  Jr.,  Robert  Ray,  Abraham 
Flickinger,  Susannah  Flickinger,  James  McMullen,  Margaret 
McMullen,  James  G.  Stewart,  Rebecca  Stewart,  James  Stewart, 
Margaret  Stewart,  Susan  Robertson,  Andrew  J.  Wilkins,  Mary 
Wilkins. 

The  first  house  of  worship  was  ei-ected  by  the  Presbyterians 
and  Associate  Reformed  Presbyterians,  aided  by  members  of  other 
churches,  in  1851,  and  was  jointly  occupied  by  them.  It  was  a 
frame  structure  and  cost  about  $950.  This  partnership  lasted  till 
1881,  when  the  Presbyterian  congregation  sold  their  interest  to  the 
United  Presbyterian  congregation.  In  that  year  the  present  house 
of  worship  was  erected  at  a  cost  of  about  $1,900.  It  is  a  frame 
structure,  thirty-two  by  forty-eight  feet,  and  will  seat  about  200 
persons. 

In  one  respect  the  history  of  this  church  is  peculiar.  During 
the  thirty-seven  years  of  its  existence  it  has  never  had  an  installed 
pastor.  It  has,  however,  had  a  pretty  regular  succession  of  stated 
'    34 


266  HISTORY.   OF    THE 


supplies,  and  has  enjoyed  the  services  of  many  able  and  faithful 
ministers.  The  first  of  these  was  Rev.  Samuel  Swan,  who 
preached  here  as  early  as  1849,  and  continued  until  1855.  The 
others  have  been  as  follows:  Rev.  John  Rice,  from  1856  to  1864; 
Rev.  A.  S.  Foster,  1866-67;  Rev.  J.  Logan  Sample,  1867-68; 
Rev.  B.  Shields  Sloan,  1872-74;  Rev.  D.  L.  Dickey,  1875-76; 
Rev.  J.  S.  Axtell;  1876-78;  Rev.  T.  R.  Ewing,  1879-80;  Rev.  F. 
Orr,  1886.  During  intervals  between  the  terms  of  service  above 
indicated,  occasional  supplies  were  sent  by  Presbytery. 

At  the  time  of  the  organization  Abraham  Flickinger,  James  G. 
Stewart  and  James  McMullen  were  chosen  as  elders.  Mr.  Stewart 
continued  in  service  until  1863  and  Mr.  Flickinger  and  George  W. 
Robertson  were  added  to  the  session.  In  1860,  Wm.  M.  Findley 
and  Wm.  P.  Gregg  were  inducted  into  office,  both  of  whom 
served  until  1864.  In  1883,  Nicholas  Paige  and  VVm.  G.  Hovis 
were  chosen.  The  persons  named  above  and  not  mentioned  as 
having  ceased  to  serve  constitute  the  present  session  of  which 
James  McMullen  is  clerk. 

The  following  persons  have  served  for  longer  or  shorter  periods 
as  superintendent  of  the  Sabbath  School,  viz:  James  McMullen, 
Wm.  P.  Gregg,  John  A.  McFeatters,  John  C.  McCracken,  Geo. 
W.  Robertson. 

The  inembership  of  the  church  as  reported  for  1887,  was  fifty- 
seven. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  267 


MIDDLE  CREEK. 


BY    REV.    S.    A.    HUGHES. 


rrrrrrrrrrTTTT 


This  church  was  organized  October  9,  1843,  by  the  Presbytery 
of  Clarion.  At  a  meeting  held  in  Brookville  in  the  month  of 
September,  1843,  a  petition  was  presented  asking  for  the  organiza- 
tion of  a  Presbyterian  church  in  the  portion  of  Armstrong  county 
east  of  the  Allegheny  river,  and  between  the  creeks  of  Redbank 
and  Mahoning.  This  was  the  result  of  the  labors  of  David  S. 
McComb,  a  licentiate  of  Clarion  Presbytery,  who  had,  frequently 
and  for  some  considerable  time,  preached  in  the  neighborhood  in 
schools  and  private  houses  and  barns,  as  an  humble,  faithful  mis- 
sionary in  the  Master's  work.  In  April,  1844,  the  church  extended 
a  call  to  him  which  in  August  he  declined.  In  answer  to  this 
petition  a  committee  was  appointed  consisting  of  Revs.  E.  D.  Bar- 
rett and  David  McKay  and  elder  A.  N.  McCain.  This  committee 
met  in  Salem  church  the  above  date  and  completed  the  organiza- 
tiort.  Elizabeth  Shields,  Thos.  Gray  and  Elizabeth  Gray  were 
received  by  letter.  Joseph  Sowash,  Jane  A.  Sowash,  Henry 
Heasley,  Mary  A.  Heasley,  John  Beham,  Annie  Beham  and 
Charity  Bain,  were  received  on  examination.  Thos.  Gray,  John 
Beham  and  Henry  Heasley  were  elected  and  ordained  ruling  elders. 

PASTORS    AND    SUPPLIES. 

From  its  organization  to  1846  the  church  was  supplied  by  Rev. 
E.  D.  Barrett;  during  the  year  1847  by  Rev.  D.  McKay;  in 
1848-9,  by  Rev.  John  Core;  again  in  1850  by  Rev.  D.  McKay; 
October,  1850,  to  December,  1852,  by   Rev.  Laverty  Grier;  1853 


2(58  HISTORY    OF    THE 


to  1856,  by  Rev.  Jas.  Montgomery  and  Rev.  Wm.  McMichael, 
and  from  October  19,1856  to  August  11,  1857,  by  Rev,  N.  M. 
Crane.  From  September  28,  1858,  to  October  19,  1860,  the  church 
was  served  by  Rev.  W.  P.  Moore,  of  Rimersburg,  as  stated  supply. 
Rev.  John  H.  Sherrard  having  accepted  a  call  was  installed,  Sep- 
tember 24,  1861,  and  continued  pastor  up  to  February  19,  1867, 
when  the  relation  was  dissolved.  Then  a  call  was  made  for  the 
pastoral  labors  of  Rev,  J.  A.  E.  Simpson  and  being  accepted  by 
him,  he  was  duly  installed,  July  3,  1867.  He  continued  pastor  to 
April  27,  1870.  To  this  time  the  church  was  in  the  Presbytery  of 
Clarion,  but  at  the  reconstruction  of  boundaries  in  1870  it  fell  to  the 
Presbytery  of  Kittanning.  The  pulpit  was  supplied  regularly  from 
April,  1870,  to  December,  1874,  by  Rev.  A.  Virtue.  From  this 
date  to  February,  1879,  supplies  were  appointed  by  the  Presby- 
tery of  Kittanning.  In  February  of  this  year  the  congregation 
was  visited  by  a  committee,  Revs.  T.  D.  Ewing  and  P.  Baker, 
appointed  for  that  purpose,  which  resulted  in  a  gracious  revival. 
In  February,  1879,  Rev.  S.  A.  Hughes  became  stated  supply  and 
continued  as  such  to  April,  1888.  This,  as  nearly  as  can  be 
gathered,  is  the   record  of  pastors   and  supplies  in  Middle  Creek. 

REVIVALS. 

In  February,  1868,  under  the  labors  of  Rev.  J.  A.  E.  Simpson, 
a  season  of  refreshing  was  enjoyed  by  the  church  and  twelve 
were  received  to  its  communion  on  profession  of  their  faith  in 
Christ.  xAgain,  in  February,  1879,  a  still  more  abundant  refreshing 
was  granted  this  people.  It  came  as  a  result  of  the  visit  of  the 
committee  appointed  by  Presbytery  for  this  purpose,  when  thirty- 
six  were  gathered  into  the  fold  and  the  names  of  Bros.  Ewing  and 
Baker  enshrined  in  the  hearts  of  the  people.  Why  is  not  more  of 
this  work  done  by  Presbytery  for  her  weak  and  struggling 
churches  compelled  by  the  ir  poverty  to  live  principally  on  supplies.'' 
Then  again  in  January,  1885,  there  was  a  time  of  revival  and 
twenty,  principally  young  men,  were  added  to  their  number. 

THE    SESSION. 

At  the  time  of  organization  Thos.  Gray,  Henry  Heasley  and 
John  Beham  constituted  the  session  of  the  church.  The  first 
addition  was  made  November  17,  1861,  when  John  Craig,  John  B, 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  269 

Craig  and  John  Truby  were  elected,  and  November  24,  1861, 
ordained  to  this  office.  Again,  August  19,  1874,  the  congregation 
by  its  ballot  called  John  Helm  and  T.  W.  Marshall  to  serve  them 
as  elders  and  they  were  ordained,  September  13,  1874.  The  next 
added  to  the  session  were  Samuel  Hines  and  Louis  Stroup,  elected 
April  8,  and  ordained  April  10,  1820.  Then,  November  28,  1880, 
G.  W.  Craig  and  D.  C.  Collingwood  were  elected  and,  December 
26,  1880,  duly  set  apart  to  this  office.  The  last  addition  was  made 
January  10,  1885,  in  the  choice  of  G.  A.  Balsiger,  who  was 
ordained  January  18,  1885.  Of  these,  three  served  the  church  until 
the  Master  called  them  to  the  church  triumphant,  Thos.  Gray, 
John  B.  Craig  and  D.  C.  Collingwood.  Four  withdrew  by  letter 
to  serve  the  church  elsewhere,  Henry  Heasley,  John  Beham,  John 
Truby  and  T.  W.  Marshall. 

CHURCH    BUILDING. 

The  house  of  worship  now  occupied  is  the  only  one  built  by 
the  congregation.  It  was  erected  in  1864  at  a  cost  of  $1,250  and 
is  forty  by  fifty  feet,  twelve  foot  ceiling.  Rev.  J.  H.  Sherrard  in  a 
notice  of  the  church  wrote;  "  This  congregation  did  not  enter 
their  own  house  of  worship  until  the  early  part  of  the  year  1864;" 
and  Rev.  J.  S.  Elder  writes:  "  I  think  their  first  house  of  worship 
must  have  been  a  union  one.  I  remember  preaching  in  the  old 
one  which  stood  for  some  time  after  they  entered  the  new  one  in 
1864.  The  first  time  I  preached  in  Middle  Creek  the  men  were 
all  in  their  shirt  sleeves,  and  the  pews  were  simply  slabs  with  feet 
but  no  backs." 

SABBATH     SCHOOL. 

The  Sabbath  School  has  been  from  the  time  of  its  organization 
conducted  as  a  union  school.  Hence  the  congregation  has  not 
kept  any  record  of  its  officers  and  teachers. 


270  HISTORY    OP    THE 


MIDWAY, 


BY    REV.    J.    C.    M  CRACKEN. 


A  committee  appointed  by  Kittanning  Presbytery,  consisting  ol 
Revs.  A.  S.  Thompson  and  B.  F.  Boyle,  and  elder  A.  H.  McKee, 
met  at  the  Brown  school-house,  in  Sugar  Creek  township,  Arm- 
strong county.  Pa.,  September  4,  1875,  and  organized  this  church, 
giving  it  the  name  of  Midway,  because  situated  between  and  about 
equidistant  from  Union  and  Brady's  Bend  churches.  To  this  com- 
mittee were  presented  twenty-six  certificates  from  Union  and  six- 
teen from  Brady's  Bend,  four  uniting  on  profession,  making  in  all 
forty-six  members  at  the  organization.  Messrs.  Christopher  Foster, 
John  Adams  and  Daniel  L.  Rankin  were  elected  elders,  and 
Messrs.  Adams  and  Rankin  were  then  ordained,  Mr.  Foster  having 
formerly  served  as  an  elder  in  Brady's  Bend  church,  and  all  were 
installed.  On  the  following  Sabbath,  Midway  church  had  its  first 
communion,  in  which  Rev.  A.  S.  Thompson  officiated. 

June  19,  1876,  Rev.  W.  J.  Wilson,  v/ho  had  just  completed  his 
Course  at  the  Western  Theological  Seminary,  having  been  ordained 
at  Union,  June  14^  1876,  was  installed  pastor  of  Midwa}^  in  con- 
nection with  Union,  one-half  time  in  each  place.  In  the  installa- 
tion service.  Rev.  S.  A.  Hughes  preached  the  sermon.  Rev.  T.  D. 
Ewing  delivered  the  charge  to  the  people  and  Rev.  Perrin  Baker 
the  charge  to  the  pastor.  The  pastoral  relationship  thus  consti- 
tuted was  dissolved  by  Presbytery  at  the   pastor's  request,  October 

8,  1879. 

In  January,  1879,  Thos.  V.  McKee  was  added  to  the  session. 
From  this  time  the  church  was  dependent  on  supplies  until  Januar}' 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  271 

]4,  1881,  when  Rev.  H.  Magill,  having  preached  as  stated  supply 
for  about  fifteen  months,  became  pastor.  During  his  pastorate, 
which  continued  until  October,  1884,  the  church  was  greatly 
blessed,  the  membership  increased  from  about  forty  to  114,  a  new 
frame  church,  costing  $2,500,  was  built  and  dedicated  November, 
1880,  free  of  debt.  Dedicatory  services  were  conducted  by  Revs. 
D.  Hall,  D.  D.,  B.  F.  Boyle  and  A.  S.  Thompson. 

At  this  time  the  church  was  left  with  but  one  elder,  Messrs. 
Rankin,  Foster  and  McKee,  having  moved  out  of  the  bounds  of 
the  congregation.  February  6,  1881,  an  announcement  of  a  con- 
gregational meeting  was  made  to  be  held  March  4,  1881,  for  the 
purpose  of  electing  elders  and  trustees.  At  that  election,  Hugh 
Moore,  A.  B.  McElroy  and  C.  L.  Templeton  were  chosen  elders, 
and  on  the  twentieth  day  of  the  same  month  they  were  ordained 
and  installed.  Up  to  this  time  ther^  has  been  but  one  change  in 
the  board  of  trustees  since  the  dedication  of  the  church,  the  same 
men  serving  from  year  to  year. 

During  the  time  Rev.  H.  Magill  served  this  church,  seventy- 
five  were  added  to  the  membership,  but  during  the  same  time  it 
lost  ten  by  death,  fifty-five  by  removals,  and  three  were  suspended^ 
making  a  total  loss  of  sixty-eight.  From  October,  1884,  to  April, 
1885,  the  church  received  occasional  supplies  by  Fresbyterial 
appointment.  From  April  to  November,  1885,  it  was  statedly  sup- 
plied, with  the  permission  of  Presbytery,  by  Rev.  J.  C.  Shearer. 
From  November,  1885,  to  April,  1887,  the  church  was  regularly 
supplied  by  Mr.  Swan  and  others  from  the  Western  Theological 
Seminary,  and  from  April,  1887,  to  April,  1888,  by  Rev.  S,  A. 
Hughes.  Further  notice  of  the  ministers  above  named  may  be 
found  inconnection  with  Union. 


272  HISTORY    OF    THE 


MOUNT  PLEASANT. 


FROM    NOTES    BY  A.   J.  T.   CRAWFORD,  ESQ.,  AND    REV.  A.  T.  BELL, 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


During  the  summer  of  1839,  Mr.  John  Nott,  a  licentiate, 
preached  occasionally  in  the  barn  of  John  Gourley  in  North 
Mahoning  township,  Indiana  county,  about  two  miles  from  where 
the  church  now  stands.  The  Presbyterians  of  this  neighborhood^ 
most  of  whom  were  members  of  Gilgal  church,  about  eight  miles 
southward,  with  a  few  of  Perry  church,  the  same  distance  north- 
ward, were  thus  brought  together,  and  made  to  feel  that  they  were 
one  and  should  have  greater  convenience  in  public  worship  than 
was  afTorded  by  existing  organizations  of  the  Presbyterian  order. 

Not  feeling  able  as  yet  to  support  a  new  organization,  an  arrange- 
ment was  made  with  the  churches  of  Gilgal  and  Perry,  then  the 
pastoral  charge  of  Rev.  John  Caruthers,  that  they  would  each 
grant  their  pastor  time  to  preach  two  sermons  annually.  They 
thus  met  for  public  worship  four  times  a  year  in  a  log  school  house 
that  stood  near  the  place  where  the  church  was  afterwards  built. 
This  arrangement  continued  for  fourteen  years. 

The  church  of  Mount  Pleasant,  located  at  Covode,  formerly 
called  Kellysville,  Indiana  county,  Pa.,  was  organized  September  8, 
1854,  by  a  committee  of  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville,  consisting  of 
Rev.  A.  McElwain,  Rev.  C.  Forbes  and  Rev.  John  Caruthers. 
The  original  members  were  thirty  in  number,  twenty-eight  being 
received  on  certificate  from  the  church  of  Gilgal  and  two  from 
Perry. 

About  the  time  of  the  organization  a  parcel  of  ground  was  pur- 
chased, and  on  it  was  expected,  in  1855,  a  frame  building,  in  size  45 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  273 

by  60  feet,  which  is  still  occupied  by  the  congregation,  and  is  a 
fairly  commodious  and  comfortable  place  of  worship.  The  con- 
gregation has  also  a  neat  and  comfoitable  parsonage,  with  five  acres 
of  ground  attached,  and  also  ground  upon  which  was  erected  in 
1862-3  an  academy  building,  all  of  which  property  is  held  under 
the  provisions  of  a  charter. 

At  the  time  when  the  erection  of  a  church  building  was  under- 
taken, the  "  dry  summer  "  had  just  ended,  causing  a  time  of  finan- 
cial depression,  so  that  with  great  difficulty  the  church  was  com- 
pleted. The  members  were  mostly  farmers,  crops  had  failed,  and 
prospects  were  gloomy.  At  one  time  the  workmen  demanded 
"  flour  "  or  "  money,"  and  as  neither  could  be  procured,  it  seemed 
that  the  work  must  stop.  Just  then  some  timely  aid  was  received 
from  a  friendly  church  in  the  East,  and  this  was  followed  by  help 
from  some  of  the  churches  of  the  Presbytery,  Thus  the  people 
were  encouraged,  and  the  work  completed.  The  new  church  was 
dedicated,  September  9,  1855,  Rev.  A.  McElwain,  who  was 
present,  assisting  in  a  communion  service,  preaching  the  dedicatory 
sermon  from  the  text,  "And  his  rest  shall  be  glorious."  At  this 
time  nine  were  added  to  the  church,  the  total  membership  being  then 
forty-six. 

At  the  time  of  its  organization,  Rev,  John  Caruthers,  pastor  of 
Gilgal,  the  mother  church,  took  charge  of  the  daughter  also,  and 
became  pastor  of  Mount  Pleasant,  for  one-fourth  time,  continuing 
faithfully  to  serve  the  congregation  until  he  was  released,  October 
16,  1867.  It  has  been  said  of  him  that  "  his  labors  were  abundant; 
he  was  instant  in  season,  out  of  season."  A  fuller  notice  of  his  life 
and  work  will  be  found  in  connection  with  the  churches  of 
Gilgal  and  Marion. 

For  a  time  after  the  release  of  Father  Caruthers  the  church 
had  only  occasional  sujDplies.  At  length  another  pastor  was 
secured  in  the  person  of  Rev.  Carl  Moore.  On  the  13th  of  April, 
1869,  at  which  time  he  was  received  by  the  Presbytery  from  the 
Presbytery  of  Cincinnati,  he  accepted  calls  from  this  church  and 
from  Plumville  and  Smicksburg,  giving  to  Mount  Pleasant  one- 
half  of  his  labors  in  the  gospel,  and  to  each  of  the  other  two  one- 
fourth.  From  this  church  he  was  released,  October  2,  1872,  but 
continued  to  serve  the  other  two  for  about  a  year  afterward.  As  a 
pastor  he  was  earnest  and  untiring, 

35 


274  HISTORY    OF    THE 


For  several  years  after  this  the  church  appears  on  the  minutes' 
of  the  General  Assembly  as  vacant.  During  this  time  Rev.  J.  L. 
Sample  and  Rev.  A.  T.  Bell  held  communion  services,  and  other 
occasional  supplies  were  held.  During  the  summer  of  1874,  for 
six  months,  the  church  was  supplied  with  preachmg  by  Mr.  J. 
McGaughey.  Mr.  A.  T.  Irwin,  a  licentiate,  at  the  time,  of  Kit- 
tanning  Presbytery,  supplied  the  church  in  connection  with  Rock- 
bridge for  six  months,  during  the  summer  of  1876.  June  27,  1877, 
this  church,  Gilgal  and  Rockbridge  presented  to  the  Presbytery 
calls  for  the  services  of  Mr.  W.  F.  Gibson,  a  licentiate  of  the  Pres- 
bytery of  Allegheny,  each  asking  for  one-third  of  his  time.  These 
calls  he  accepted,  and  on  the  following  day,  June  28th,  was 
ordained.  He  was  installed  in  the  charge,  July  7,  1887,  Rev.  G. 
W.  Mechlin,  D.  D.,  preaching  the  sermon.  Rev.  J.  L.  Sample 
delivering  the  charge  to  the  pastor,  and  Rev.  A.  T.  Bell  presiding 
and  delivering  the  charge  to  the  people.  Under  Mr.  Gibsipn's 
labors  the  churches  were  greatly  strengthened  and  encouraged.  But 
deeming  tlie  work  upon  tills  wide  field  beyond  his  strength,  Tnd 
having  a  call  from  the  church  of  Cherry  Tree,  Mr.  Gibson,  on  the 
22d  day  of  June,  1881,  asked  the  Presbytery  to  release  him  from  his 
charge.  To  this  request  the  churches  made  such  objection  that  at 
its  meeting  in  October  following,  the  Presbytery  decided  not  to 
effect  his  release.  But  the  request  being  renewed  upon  the  same 
grounds  as  formerly,  and  the  churches  expressing  reluctant  assent, 
after  each  church  had  presented  a  call  for  one-half  of  Mr.  Gibson's 
time,  and  he  had  declined  to  decide  between  them,  the  Presbytery 
released  him  from  his  charge,  April  22,  1882,  and,  January  2d,  fol- 
lowing, dismissed  him  to  the  Presbytery  of  Bloomington,  where  he 
had  charge  of  the  church  at  Hey  worth.  111. 

A  vacancy  of  a  year  ensued,  when,  April  24,  1883,  a  call  was 
presented  from  the  charge,  each  church  asking  third  time  for  the 
service  of  Mr.  A.  S.  Elliott,  a  licentiate  of  the  Presbytery  of 
Clarion.  Having  accepted  these  calls  he  was  ordained  at  Mechan- 
icsburg,  June  26,  1883,  and  installed  in  the  charge  at  Rockbridge, 
July  31st  following.  Rev.  J.  Spencer  presiding  and  preaching  the 
sermon,  Rev.  A.  T.  Bell  giving  the  charge  to  the  pastor,  and  Rev. 
James  Caldwell  that  to  the  people.  But  this  relation  was  of  short 
duration,  for  on  the  23d  of  April,  1884,  he  asked  of  the  Presbytery 
to  be  released   from   his   charge,  and  the  congregations  expressing 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  275 

acquiescence,  the  request  was  granted,  and  Mr.  Elliott  was  dis- 
missed to  the  Presbytery  of  Central  Dakota.  During  the  follow- 
ing summer  the  churches  were  supplied  by  Revs.  J.  Spencer,  B.  S. 
Sloan  and  A.  H.  Jolly. 

During  the  fall  of  1884,  Rev.  W.  F.  Gibson  being  released  from 
his  charge  in  Illinois,  returned  to  this  region,  and  at  the  request  of 
these  churches  he  began  to  labor  among  them.  Calls  were  pre- 
sented for  him  to  the  Presbytery  at  the  December  meeting,  each 
church  asking  third  time.  At  the  spring  meeting  the  Rockbridge 
call  was  changed  to  half  time,  and  the  others  were  modified  accord- 
ingly. These  calls  Mr.  Gibson  accepted,  and  he  was  installed  for 
the  second  time  in  the  charge  at  Mount  Pleasant,  May  12,  1885. 
In  the  services  Rev.  A.  H.  Jolly  presided  and  preached.  Rev.  L. 
Mechlin  gave  the  charge  to  the  pastor,  and  Rev.  A.  T.  Bell  to  the 
people.  The  old  love  being  thus  renewed,  the  churches  of  this 
charge  indulged  the  hope  that  they  had  secured  a  pastor  for  a  long 
time  to  come.  In  this  hope,  however,  they  were  destined  to  be 
disappointed.  Mr.  Gibson  having  received  a  call  to  the  church  at 
Clyde,  Kansas,  again  asked  release,  which  Presbytery  reluctantly- 
granted,  October  12,  1 886.  Since  this  date  the  churches  have  been 
vacant,  having  only  occasional  supplies,  chiefly  from  Revs.  G.  W. 
Mechlin.  D.  D.,  L.  Mechlin,  B.  S.  Sloan,  J.  C.  Ambrose  and 
Messrs.  J.  C.  Mechlin  and  L.  E.  Keith. 

At  the  time  of  the  organization  of  the  church  four  ruling  elders 
were  ordained,  viz:  William  Black,  John  Gourley,  J.  L.  McComb 
and  William  G.  Lewis.  Mr.  Black  died  February  2,  1874,  and 
Mr.  McComb  was  dismissed  to  Heyworth,  111.,  in  1866.  The  fol- 
lowing additions  have  been  made  to  the  session,  viz:  A.J.  T. 
Crawford,  who  was  installed  September  3,  1859;  John  North  and 
James  H.  McAlister,  ordained  and  installed  August  2,  1868;  James 
Wachob,  Thompson  McConaughey,  J.  L.  McAlister  and  J.  Milton 
Shields,  ordained  and  installed  December  17,  1875.  Of  these,  J. 
H.  McAlister  died  October  21,  1874;  John  North  was  dismissed  to 
the  C.  P.  church,  Punxsulawney,  November  22,  1875,  and  J. 
Milton  Shields,  M.  D.,  was  dismissed  to  Santa  Fe,  N.  M.,  February 
18,  1878.  The  present  session  consists  of  Messrs.  Gourley,  Lewis, 
Wachob,  McConaughey,  J.  L.  McAlister  and  Crawford,  of  whom 
the  last  named  is  clerk. 

Sabbath    School    has   been   maintained    in  the   church  from  the 


276  HISTORY    OF    THE 


time  of  organization  onward,  beinLj  kept  open  the  entire  year.  In 
the  superintendency  of  the  sciiool  there  have  been  very  few 
changes.     Th«  presen*^  superintendent  is  J.  L.  McAlister. 

The    membership  of  this    church    has    never    been  very  lai'ge. 
Tb.e  number  reported  for  1887  was  66. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  277 


PARKER  CITY. 


BY    REV.   J.    W.    MILLER. 


VTTTTTTYTTTTTTTT 


ORGANIZATION. 


The  church  of  Parker  City  was  organized  not  later  than  the 
year  1819.  The  exact  date  of  Its  organization  cannot  be  obtained. 
Even  the  minutes  of  the  Presbytery  of  Erie,  within  whose  bounds 
the  church  of  Ebenezer  (now  Parker  City)  was  at  that  time,  contain 
no  record  of  that  event.  But  this  omission  is  not  surprising.  Di*. 
S.  J.  M.  Eaton,  Stated  Clerk  of  Erie  Presbytery,  says  in  a  letter 
to  the  writer:  "  For  the  first  forty  years  of  the  history  of  Ei'ie 
Presbytery  there  is  not  recorded  the  organization  of  a  single 
church.  The  churches  wei'e  enrolled  from  time  to  time,  as  was 
the  church  of  Ebenezer."  It  seems  that  in  those  early  days 
churches  were  organized  by  ministers  or  missionaries  on  their  own 
responsibility.  They  assisted  in  the  election  of  elders,  and  after- 
ward, at  their  request,  Presbytery  recognized  and  enrolled  those 
churches. 

Accordingly,  the  first  mention  of  the  church  of  Ebenezer  in 
the  minutes  of  Presbytery  is  the  following  i-ecord  bearing  date  of 
September  28,  1820:  "  On  petition  of  the  Inhabitants  of  Lawrence- 
burg,  the  congregation  of  Ebenezer  was  recognized  as  under  the 
care  of  Presbytery."  This  is  the  only  reference  to  Ebenezer  in 
those  minutes.  The  next  year  the  Presbytery  of  Allegheny  was 
formed  and  the  church  passed  into  that  body. 

No  account  of  the  organization  of  Ebenezer  church  can  be 
given.  Even  tradition  has  not  preserved  any  of  the  circumstances 
attending  that  event.     There  are  no  records  giving  the   names  of 


278  HISTORY    OF    THE 


the  original  members,  but  the  following  persons  with  their  families 
are  said  to  have  been  among  the  number:  George,  James,  Huey 
and  Gideon  Gibson,  William  and  James  Redick,  Robert  and  John. 
Allen,  Judge  John  Parker,  Thomas,  James,  John  and  vSamuel 
Kelly,  William   Turner,   James    Knox,   William   Graham,   Daniel 

Lavier,    William     Hutcheson,    Beatty,    Thomas    Martin,, 

Ebenezer  and  vSamuel  Crawford,  David  White,  Andrew  Campbell 
and  Robert  Story. 

Before  the  organization  of  Ebenezer,  the  Presbyterian  families 
living  in  this  vicinity  attended  either  Bear  Creek  or  Scrubgrass. 
Rev.  Robert  Johnston,  pastor  of  these  churches  from  180B  to  1811» 
frequently  held  services  here  in  the  school-house  or  in  the  dwellings 
of  some  of  his  people.  His  successor,  Rev.  Cyrus  Riggs,  pastor 
of  Scrubgrass  and  West  Unity  (now  Harrisvilie),  from  1814  to 
1834,  preached  in  Lawrenceburg  about  once  a  month  until  Rev. 
Alexander  Cook  became  pastor  of  Ebenezer  church. 

CHURCH    PROPERTY. 

1.  The  plot  of  ground  on  which  the  church  stands,  including- 
the  parsonage  and  cemetery.  This  lot  is  situated  on  the  corner  oi 
Jackson  avenue  and  Hickory  alley,  and  has  a  frontage  of  176  J^ 
feet,  and  depth  of  412  J/^  feet.  It  was  given  to  the  congregation 
by  Judge  John  Parker. 

2.  A  lot  on  the  corner  of  River  avenue  and  Fourth  street,  with 
frontage  on  River  avenue  of  twenty -four  feet  and  depth  of  forty 
feet.  This  lot  was  obtained  by  devise  of  Mr.  Fullerton  Parker, 
who  died  December  26,  1883. 

HOUSES    OF    WORSHIP. 

For  the  first  two  or  three  years  the  congregation  worshiped  in 
a  grove  near  where  the  present  church  stands.  A  "  tent "  had 
been  erected,  consisting  simply  of  a  covered  platform  for  the  min- 
ister. This  "  tent "  stood  near  the  foot  of  the  slope  opposite  the 
residence  of  Mr.  Andrew  Shidemantle  on  Ludlow  avenue.  It 
faced  the  hill-side  and  the  congregation  gathered  on  the  rising 
ground  in  front,  the  people  sitting  either  on  logs  or  on  the  ground. 

In  the  summer  of  1822  the  first  house  of  worship  was  built. 
It  stood  directly  back  of  the  present  building,  about  one  hundred 
feet  distant.     It  was  a  brick  structure,  fifty  feet  wide  and  sixty  feet 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  279 

long,  one  story  high,  steep  roof,  arched  ceiHng,  high  pulpit,  occu- 
pying a  recess  at  one  end  of  the  building  and  reached  by  five  or 
six  steps.  The  house  was  not  plastered  for  some  fifteen  or  twenty 
years  after  its  erection,  and,  in  the  interval,  many  a  sparrow  found 
there  a  house,  and  many  a  swallow  a  nest  for  herself,  where  she 
might  lay  her  young.  In  later  years  the  building  was  used  also 
for  school  purposes.  While  Rev.  J.  V.  Miller  was  serving  the 
church  as  stated  supply,  on  ascending  to  the  pulpit  one  Sabbath 
morning,  he  found  on  the  seat  a  pair  of  old  boots  and  a  worn-out 
plow-point,  carried  there,  no  doubt,  by  some  of  the  mischievous 
boys  of  the  neighborhood. 

In  the  year  1867,  the  old  brick  church  was  removed  and  the 
present  frame  structure  erected.  The  original  dimensions,  changed 
afterwards  by  repairs  and  additions,  were:  length,  fifty-five  feet] 
width,  forty  feet;  cost,  $3,200;  contractor,  Hamilton  Redick; 
building  committee,  James  Parker,  Robert  Jamison  and  John  C. 
Martin.  In  1883,  the  first  repairs  were  made.  A  belfry  was 
added  to  the  building — dimensions,  twelve  by  twelve  feet,  and  fifty- 
five  feet  in  height — and  some  other  changes  made;  cost,  $1,400. 
In  1876,  the  interior  of  the  church  was  remodeled  at  a  cost  of 
$3,500.     Again  in  1885,  some  repairs  were  made,  costing  $350. 

PASTORS    AND    STATED    SUPPLIES. 

From  the  minutes  of  the  Presbytery  of  Allegheny  we  gather 
the  following  facts:  No  congregational  records  of  earlier  date 
than  1839  have  been  found.  The  first  meeting  of  the  Presbytery 
of  Allegheny  was  held  April  3,  1821.  Rev.  Alexander  Cook  was 
received  from  the  Presbytery  of  Ohio.  Calls  froin  the  churches  of 
Ebenezer  and  Bear  Creek  for  him  were  put  into  his  hands  at  this 
meeting,  and  his  installation  was  appointed  to  take  place  at  Bear 
Creek,  June  26,  1821,  Rev.  Robert  McGarrah  preaching  and  Rev. 
Abram  Boyd  delivering  the  charge  (charges).  Mr.  Cook  was  the 
first  pastor  of  Ebenezer  church.  From  the  pastoral  charge  he  was 
released,  June  26,  1827. 

April,  1833,  Bear  Creek,  Ebenezer  and  Unity  churches  asked 
Presbytery  to  appoint  Rev.  Joseph  Johnson  as  their  stated  supply 
for  three  months.  This  request  was  granted.  At  the  next  meet- 
ing of  Presbytery,  June  25,  1833,  the  same  three  churches  asked  to 


280  HISTORY    OF    THE 


have  Mr.  Johnson  as  stated  supply  till  the  next  meeting,  but  Pres- 
bytery resolved  that  it  would  not  be  expedient  to  grant  this  request. 

April  3,  1838,  Ebenezer  congregation  applied  for  one-fourth  of 
the  labors  of  John  R.  Agnew,  as  stated  supply  for  one  year.  The 
request  was  granted.  The  minutes  of  Presbytery  do  not  again 
mention  Ebenezer  until  1845.  The  church  seems  to  have  been 
without  pastor  or  stated  supply  during  that  interval. 

October  21, 1845,  Rev.  Louis  L.  Conrad  was  appointed  stated 
supply  at  Brady's  Bend  one-half  time  for  one  year,  and  one-fourth 
time  each  at  Scrubgrass  and  Ebenezer,  till  spring  meeting  of  Pres- 
bytery. 

September  8,  1846,  Presbytery  granted  Ebenezer  permission  to 
make  arrangements  for  preaching  with  Mr.  John  K.  Cornyn,  a 
licentiate. 

June  22,  1847,  "  The  congregation  of  Lawrence'ourg " 
(Ebenezer)  asked  that  Rev.  Ebenezer  Henry  be  appointed  stated 
supply  until  the  next  meeting  of  Presbytery. 

November  10,  1847,  a  call  was  jDresented  in  Presbytery  from 
Ebenezer  church  for  one-third  the  labors  of  Mr.  Henry.  He  was 
ordained  at  Scrubgrass  at  that  meeting  and  installed  over  Scrubgrass 
and  Ebenezer  churches.  Rev.  Newton  Bracken  preached.  Rev. 
John  Munson  made  the  ordaining  prayer.  Rev.  Robert  B.  Walker 
charged  the  pastor,  and  Rev.  John  Coulter,  the  people. 

November  5,  1856,  Rev.  Ebenezer  Henry  was  released  from 
this  pastoral  charge  at  his  request,  and  with  the  consent  of  the 
churches,  on  account:  of  his  impaired  health. 

June  28,  1857,  Rev.  John  V.  Miller  was  appointed  stated 
sujDply  at  Ebenezer,  one-third  of  his  time,  for  one  year. 

April  10,  1860,  calls  from  Ebenezer  and  Clintonville,  each  for 
one-half  time,  were  presented  to  Rev.  James  Coulter.  The  call 
from  Clintonville  was  placed  in  his  hands,  and  the  Stated  Clerk  was 
directed  to  ascertain  from  the  late  pastor  of  Ebenezer  what  amount 
was  due  him  from  this  church. 

June  19,  1860,  the  call  of  Ebenezer  church  for  one-half  Rev. 
James  Coulter's  time,  was  placed  in  his  hands  and  accepted  by  him, 
and  at  the  same  time  the  call  from  the  church  of  Clintonville  was 
accepted.  Arrangements  were  made  for  his  installation  over  Eben- 
ezer, October  17, 1860,  Rev.  Ephriani  Ogden  to  preach.  Rev.  J.  R. 
Coulter  to  charge  the  pastor,  and  Rev.  R.  B.  Walker,  the  people. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  281 

April  25,  1865,  permission  was  granted  the  church  of  Ebenezer 
to  change  its  call  for  Rev.  James  Coulter  from  one-half  his  time  to 
one-third,  and  at  the  same  time  he  accepted  calls  from  the  churches 
of  Sunbury  and  Pleasant  Valley,  each  for  one-third  of  his  time. 

October  5,  1869,  Rev.  James  Coulter  was  released  at  his  own 
request,  and  with  the  consent  of  the  congregation. 

The  following  year  the  church  of  Ebenezer  passed  into  Kittan- 
ning  Presbytery.  November  15,  1870,  Rev.  Samuel  A.  Hughes 
accepted  a  call  from  Ebenezer.  This  pastoral  relation  was  dis- 
solved November  1,  1877. 

Since  that  date  the  following  ministers  have  served  this  church 
as  pastors: 

Installed.  Dismissed. 

John  N.  MacGonigle June  3,  1S7S August        5,  1880. 

Houston  W.  Lowrv July  13,  1881 June  9,  1885. 

Clark  B.  Gillette... October     27,1885 October     27,1886. 

J.  Walker  Miller December  20,  1887 

RULING    ELDERS. 

William     Redick,    1819-1868;     Gideon    Gibson,    1819-1842; 

James    Turner,    1819-1833;    Robert   Allen,    1842 ?;    David 

Hutcheson,  1842 ?;  John  Allen,  1849-1865;  John  C.  Gibson, 

1849-1859;    John    L.    Gibson,    1850-1879;    William    Thompson, 

1860-1870;  *John   M.  Turner,  1860 ;    John  Martin,    1860- 

?;  William   H.   Redick,   1865-1877;  Pvobert  Jamison,  1865- 

?;  *H.  H.   Say,  1865 ;  James   A.   Morgan,  1865-1871; 

*Joseph  Eggert,   1871 ;    Thomas   Shaw,  1871-1874;    J.  T. 

Cooper,  1871-1883;  S.  E.  Critchlow,  1871-1872;  *S.  H.  Manifold, 

1873 ;  *W.  G.  Moore,  1.873 ;  Thomas  H.  Evans,  1874- 

1879;  R.  T.  MahafFy,  1874-1884;  *James  G.  Anderson,  1879 ; 

*John  C.  Redick,  1879 . 

The  rotary  system  of  eldership  was  adopted  by  the  congregation, 
April,  1874. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

I.  Metnbership.  In  1831,  this  church  reported  to  Presbytery 
a  membership  of  sixty-eight.  In  1847,  the.  beginning  of  Rev. 
Ebenezer  Henry's  pastorate,  there  were  seventy-one  members. 
During   that   pastorate    (1847-56),   fifty-three   were   added   to  the 

*Thcse  are  still  in  office. 
36 


282  HISTORY    OF    THE 


church.  While  Rev.  John  V.  Miller  was  administering  to  the 
church  (1852-58),  forty-one  were  added.  While  Rev.  James 
Coulter  was  pastor  (1860-459),  ninety-two  were  received.  When 
Rev.  Samuel  A.  Hughes  became  pastor,  in  1870,  the  membership 
was  100.  During  his  ministry  here,  377  members  were  received, 
206  on  examination,  and  171  by  certificate.  At  the  close  of  that 
])astorate  in  1877  the  membership  was  265.  During  Rev.  John  N. 
MacGonigle's  ministry  here  (1878-80),  seventy  were  added;  and 
during  Rev.  H.  W.  Lowry's  (1881-85),  seventy-four.  At  the 
close  of  the  last  pastorate,  the  membership  was  176.  While  Rev. 
Clark  B.  Gillette  was  pastor  (1885-86),  twenty-two  were  received, 
and  at  the  close  of  his  pastorate  the  number  of  members  was  190. 
It  is  now  about   185. 

2.  Revivals.  This  congregation  has  enjoyed  many  seasons  of 
spiritual  refreshing.  During  one  of  these,  in  the  winter  of  1858, 
while  Rev.  J.  V.  Miller  was  serving  the  church,  about  thirty  were 
received;  there  was  another  in  1876,  when  106  were  added  to  the 
church.  Again,  in  the  winter  of  1882,  while  Rev.  H.  W.  Lowry 
was  pastor,  there  followed  another  outpouring  of  the  Spirit.  The 
church  was  revived  and  thirty-one  were  received  into  membership. 

BIOGRAPHICAL    NOTICE  OF    PASTORS  AND    STATED    SUPPLIES. 

1.  Rev.  Alexander  Cook.,  pastor.,  iS2i-lS2y.  Alexander 
Cook  was  the  son  of  Thomas  and  Isabella  (Ogilvie)  Cook;  born 
at  St.  Monance,  Fifeshire,  near  Glasgow,  Scotland,  February  4, 
1760;  learned  the  trade  of  silversmith;  emigrated  to  America  in 
1783:  lived  for  a  time  in  ^Maryland;  in  1797  was  living  in  Canons- 
burg,  Pa.,  and  working  at  his  trade;  at  the  same  time,  though 
nearly  forty  years  of  age,  he  w^as  studying  at  the  Academy,  with  a 
view  to  entering  the  ministry;  afterwards  studied  theology  with 
Dr.  McMillan;  January  1,  1802,  was  taken  under  care  of 
the  Presbytery  of  Ohio,  as  a  suitable  person  to  be  sent  as  a  mis- 
sionary to  the  Indians;  was  licensed  for  that  purpose,  April  23, 
1802;  licensed  as  a  minister  of  the  gospel,  September  30,  1802; 
ordained  by  the  Presbytery  of  Erie,  June  22,  1803,  and  installed 
pastor  of  the  churches  of  Slippery  Rock  and  New  Castle;  dis- 
missed June  14,  1809;  labored  for  six  months  in  South  Carolina 
and  Georgia;  stated  supply  at  Poland,  Ohio,  1812-1814;  installed 
pastor  of  the  church  of  Bethany,  January  3,  1815;  dismissed  April 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  283 

1,  1820;  pastor  of  the  churches  of  Ebenezer  and  Bear  Creek,  June 
16,  1821-1827;  suppHed  for  one  year  the  churches  of  Annapolis 
and  Bloomfield,  in  Jefferson  Co.,  Ohio. 

"  In  the  winter  of  1828,  he  left  his  home  to  organize  a  church 
in  a  Scotch  settlement,  in  Columbiana  Co.,  Ohio.  Reaching  his 
destination  on  Saturday,  he  conversed  to  a  late  hour  of  the  night 
with  the  family  whose  hospitality  he  was  enjoying,  and  retired  to 
rest.  Not  appearing  at  the  usual  time  of  rising  in  the  morning, 
examination  was  made,  when  he  was  found  dead  in  his  bed.  His 
death  occurred  at  the  house  of  Mr.  Johnston,  on  Yellow  creek, 
November  30,  1828,  in  the  sixty-ninth  year  of  his  age."  Married 
Tanuary  2,  1787,  to  Miss  Alizannah  Adams,  of  Abingdon,  Md. 
They  had  ten  children,  only  three  of  whom  reached  maturity. 
Mrs.  Cook  died  at  Slipper}'  Rock,  Beaver  Co.,  Pa.,  June  6,  1805. 
He  was  afterwards  married  to  Miss  Clark,  of  Beaver  Co.,  Pa. 
"  In  person  Mr.  Cook  was  rather  below  the  medium  height,  com- 
pactly built,  dark  complexion,  dark  brown  eyes,  with  a  sedate 
expression  of  countenance,  generally,  yet  with  a  vein  of  mirth,, 
cropping  out  in  times  of  relaxation." 

2.  Rev.  yoJni  R.  A^-ne-w,  stated  supply^  i8j8-i8jg.  John  R. 
Agnew  was  born  in  McConnelsburg,  Pa.,  June  8,  1810;  graduated 
at  Dickinson  College,  Pa.,  1829;  studied  theolog}'  at  Union 
Theological  Seminary,  Va. ;  ordained  by  the  Presbyte;y  of  Alle- 
gheny, April  3,  1838;  missionary  to  the  Choctaw  Indians,  1834- 
36;  pastor  of  the  churches  of  Scrubgrass  and  West  Unity  (now 
Harrisville),  Presbytery  of  Allegheny,  April  3,  1838,  to  October  21, 
1845;  stated  supply  of  the  church  of  Ebenezer  (now  Parker  City), 
same  Presbytery,  1838-39;  agent  for  Lafayette  College,  1846; 
stated  supply  of  Welsh  Run  church,  1850-51:  stated  supply  of 
Pine  Creek  church,  1853;  missionary  at  Mt.  Carmel,  1853-54; 
stated  supply  of  Chestnut  Grove,  Md.,  1854-55;  professor  in 
'  Steubenville  Female  Seminary,  1855-59;  stated  supply  of  Centre 
and  Richmond,  1857-58;  agent  for  Lincoln  University,  1865-07; 
teacher  and  stated  supply,  Columbia,  Tenn.,  1867-69;  Chaplain, 
Missouri  State  Penitentiary,  1869-71;  agent  for  American  Bible 
Society,  Jefferson  City,  Mo.,  1871 ;  died  February  3,  1888,  in  the 
78th  year  of  his  age.  At  the  time  of  his  death  he  was  a  member 
of  the  Presbytery  of  Carlisle,  Pa.  The  following  is  from  notice 
in  Presbyterian  Banjier  : 


284  HISTORY    OF    THE 


"  Mr.  Agnew  was  pre-eminently  a  godly  man.  He  was  full  of  faith  and 
of  the  Holy  Ghost.  His  conscience  was  sensitive  to  a  degree  almost  painful. 
The  Bible  was  his  great  svibject  of  study  and  thought.  Prayer  often  with 
fasting  was  not  unfrequently  long  continued.  His  preaching  was  Scriptural 
and  instructive,  and  marked  by  intense  earnestness.  Few  men  of  the  genera- 
tion to  which  l.e  belonged  lived  in  closer  fellowship  with  God.  In  vvor.dly 
affairs  he  was  a  child,  and  his  artless  simplicity  was  often  taken  advantage  of 
to  his  pecuniary  loss.  During  the  latter  part  of  his  life  difficulty  in  hearing 
was  a  great  calamity,  as  he  enjoyed  social  intercourse  and  fairly  fed  upon  the 
preaching  of  the  gospel  and  all  other  religious  services.  He  was  known 
to  many,  all  of  whom  held  him  in  the  highest  esteem." 

3.  '  Rev.  Louis  L.  Conrad.,  stated  supply^  184^-184.6.  Louis 
L.  Conrad  was  born  in  Prussia,  June  24,  1817;  graduated  at  Hamp- 
den Sidney  College,  Va.;  Western  Theological  Seminary,  1843- 
46;  licensed  1845,  by  the  Presbytery  of  Allegheny;  ordained  1846 
by  same  Presbytery;  October  21,  1845,  appointed  by  Presbytery 
of  Allegheny  stated  supply  at  Brady's  Bend  one-half  time  for 
one  year,  and  one-fourth  timiC  each  at  Scrubgrass  and  Ebenezer  till 
Spring  meeting  of  Presbytery;  pastor  of  Murraysville  and  Cross 
Roads,  1850-52;  Manchester,  1852-67;  married  Miss  Mary 
Lowther;  died,  Manchester,  Pa.,  November  11,  1867. 

4.  Rev.  Ebenezer  Henry.,  stated  supply.,  June  22.,  184J- 
November  10.,  1842 ;  pastor.,  November  10.,  i S4'j-November  5, 
1856.  Ebenezer  Henry  was  born  in  Harrison  Co.,  Ohio,  March 
4,  1816;  graduated,  Franklin  College,  Ohio,  1841;  Western 
Theological  Seminary,  1842-1845;  licensed  by  the  Presbytery  of 
St.  Clairsville,  Ohio,  August  27,  1845;  ordained  by  Presbytery  of 
Allegheny,  March  10,  1847;  stated  supply  of  Bethlehem  and  Still 
Fork,  Ohio,  1846-47;  pastor  of  Scrubgrass  and  Ebenezer,  Pa., 
1847-56;  stated  supply  of  Hopewell  and  Versailles,  Ind.,  1859-62; 
infirm,  Butler  Co.,  Ohio,  1859-81 ;  married,  September  12,  1848, 
Miss  S.  A.  Salisbury;  died,  Butler  Co.,  Ohio,  June  20,  1881. 

5.  Rev.  James  C oulter.,  pastor .,1 860- i86g.  James  Coulter  was 
born  in  Mercer  Co.,  Pa,,  1807;  graduated  at  Jefferson  College,  1839; 
Western  Theological  Seminary,  1839-1842;  licensed  b}-  Presby- 
tery of  Allegheny,  April,  1842;  ordained  by  Presbytery  of  Erie, 
September  14,  1842;  pastor  of  Concord  and  Deerfield,  Pa.,  1842- 
46;  Sugar  Creek,  1848-52;  Harmonsburg  and  Evansburg,  1852- 
57;  Clintonville  and  Ebenezer,  1860-1869;  stated  supply,  Waterloo, 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  285. 

Mt.    Pleasant;    xlUegheny    church,    1879;    died    near    Sun- 
bury,  Butler  Co.,  Pa.,  September  23,  1880. 

6.  Rev.  Saviuel  Adams  Hughes^  pastor.,  1870-1S77.  Samuel 
Adams  Hughes  was  the  son  of  William  and  Nancy  (Sloan) 
Hughes;  born  at  Freeport,  Pa.,  March  4,  1885;  graduated  at 
Jefferson  College,  1858;  Western  Theological  Seminary,  1858-61; 
licensed,  April,  1860,  by  the  Presbytery  of  Allegheny;  ordained, 
December  16,  1861,  by  the  Presbytery  of  Columbus;  pastor  of 
Grove  City,  O.,  1861-62;  entered  the  army  as  first  lieutenant; 
pastor,  Leesburg  and  Richhill,  Pa.,  1864-65;  pastor  of  Centre,  Pa., 
1865-70;  pastor  at  Parker  City,  Pa.,  1870-77;  stated  supply  of 
Middle  Creek  and  Mahoning,  1879-1888;  married.  May  5,  1863, 
Miss  Seffie  W.  Breck. 

7.  Rev.  John  Nozvry  MacGonigle.,  pastor,  iSyS-z&So.  John 
Nowry  MacGonigle  was  born  in  Pittsburgh,  Pa.,  October  29, 
1851;  graduated  at  Western  University  of  Pennsylvania,  1871; 
Western  Theological  Seminary,  1871-74;  licensed  by  Presbytery 
of  Pittsburg,  April,  1874;  ordained  by  Presbytery  of  Blairsville, 
May  11,  1875;  pastor,  Ebensburg,  Pa.,  1875-77;  Parker  City, 
1878-80;  First  church.  Oil  City,  1880 . 

8.  Rev.  Houston  Walker  Lowry.,  pastor.^  1881-1885.  Houston 
Walker  Lowry  was  born  in  Coitsville,  Mahoning  Co.,  Ohio,  Jan- 
uary 2,  1854,  of  Scotch-Irish  parentage.  His  mother's  maiden 
name  was  Margaret  Jane  Davidson.  Received  his  preparatory 
education  at  Poland  Union  Seminary;  taught  several  terms  of 
public  school;  graduated  at  Westminster  College,  Pa.,  in  1878; 
spent  one  year  at  Princeton  Theological  Seminary,  and  two  years 
at  Western  Theological  Seminary,  graduating  in  1881;  licensed  by 
Presbytery  of  Mahoning,  at  Leetonia,  Ohio,  April  28,  1880; 
ordained  by  Presbytery  of  Kittanning,  at  Parker  City,  July  12, 
1881;  pastor  of  Parker   City,  1881-85;  pastor,   Wellsville,   Ohio, 

1885 ;  married,  June  14,  1882,  Miss  Blanche  Lee,  of  Poland, 

Ohio. 

9.  Rev.  Clark  B.  Gillette,  pastor,  1886-1887.  Clark  B.  Gil- 
lette was  born  in  Perinton,  New  York,  March  25,  1845.  His 
ancestor  on  his  father's  side,  was  driven  from  France  during  the 
Huguenot  persecution,  and  took  refuge  first  in  England  and  about 
the  year  1630,  in  the  State  of  Connecticut.  His  maternal  ancestry 
were  of  the  Doris  family,  who  lived  in   the  State  of  Massachusetts 


286  HISTORY    OF    THE 


for  about  200  years.  At  the  age  of  sixteen,  entered  Genesee  Wes- 
leyan  Seminary  at  Lima,  N.  Y.;  at  seventeen,  entered  the  army; 
remained  three  years,  reaching  successively  the  grade  of  corporal, 
second  lieutenant  and  captain,  and  receiving  many  testimonials 
from  superior  officers  for  bravery  and  patriotism;  graduated  at 
Union  College,  Schenectady,  N.  Y.,  1871;  in  1878,  graduated  at 
Auburn  Theological  Seminary,  having  spent  two  years  at  Union 
Seminary,  N.  Y.;  licensed  by  Presbytery  of  Rochester,  May, 
1873;  ordained  by  Presbytery  of  Northumberland,  Pa.,  October 
22,1878;  pastor.  Emporium,  Pa.,  1878-75;  called  to  Milvvaukie, 
1875;  pastor  of  Beecher's  Island  and  Farmington,  Pa.,  1881- 
1886;  pastor,  Parker's  Landing,  1886-87;  pastor  of  Franklin  street 
Presbyterian  church  of  Elmira,  N.  Y.,  1887;  married  in  1875, 
Miss  Addie  Andrews,  of  Rochester,  N.  Y. 

10.  Rev.  Jonathan  Walker  Miller^  pastor^  i88j.  Born, 
Monroeville,  Allegheny  Co.,  Pa.,  December  29,  1855;  son  of  Wil- 
liam Newlon  and  Susan  B.  (Walker)  Miller;  Western  University 
of  Pennsylvania,  1878;  Western  Theological  Seminary,  1880-88; 
licensed  by  Presbytery  of  Pittsburgh,  June,  1882;  ordained  by 
Presbytery   of  Butler,   October   28,  1884;  pastor,  Portersville  and 

Mt.  Nebo,  Pa.,  1884-87;  pastor,  Parker  City,  1887 ;  married, 

January  8,  1884,  Miss  Mary  E.  Evans. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  287 


PARNASSUS. 


BY    REV.    D.    H.    SLOAN, 


This  church  was  organized  by  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville, 
May  18,  1842,  the  committee  of  organization  being  Revs.  James 
Graham  and  Samuel  M.  McClung.  During  the  first  eight  years 
of  its  existence  it  had  preaching  through  supplies.  At  length  a  call 
was  extended  to  Rev.  S.  M.  McClung,  then  pastor  for  part  of  his 
time  at  Plum  Creek.  Having  accepted  this  call  he  was  installed, 
October  10,  1850,  Rev.  C.  B.  Bristol  preaching  the  sermon.  Rev. 
D.  Kirkpatrick  giving  the  charge  to  the  pastor,  and  Rev.  John  M. 
Hastings  to  the  people.  The  relation  thus  formed  continued  until 
June  24,  1857. 

When   the    Presbytery   of  Saltsburg   was  formed,  January  6, 

1857,  this  church  was  included  in  it,  and  so  remained  until  the 
reconstruction  of  1870  threw  it  back  to  the  Presbytery  of  Blairs- 
ville whei-e  it  originally  belonged.  Its  second  pastor  was  Rev. 
Daniel  W.  Townsend,  who  was  ordained  and  installed,  October  6, 

1858,  Dr.  A.  Donaldson  presiding  and  giving  the  charge  to  the 
pastor,  and  Rev.  Robert  McMillan  preaching  and  giving  the 
charge  to  the  people.     Mr.  Townsend  was  released,  June  25, 1867. 

The  next  pastor  was  Rev.  John  P.  Kennedy,  who  was  installed 
December  29,  1868,  Rev.  J.  D.  Moorhead  preaching.  Rev.  W.  W. 
Woodend  presiding,  Rev.  D.  J.  Irwin  charging  the  pastor,  and 
Rev.  J.  E.  Caruthers  the  people.  The  relation  thus  formed  con- 
tinued {ibout  eleven  years.  From  1879  to  1881,  Rev.  John  K. 
Black  was  pastor.  In  1882  the  church  was  reported  as  without  a 
pastor,  and  since  that  time  it  has  enjoyed  the  ministration  of  Rev. 
Seth  R.  Gordon.     It  was  reported  in  1887  as  having  235  members. 


288  HISTORY    OF    THE 


PINE  GROVE. 


TTTTTTTTTTT  TTTTT 


BY    KEV.    D.    H.    SLOAX. 


TTTTT TTTTTTTTTTT 


This  church  was  organized  by  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville, 
November  12,  1845.  The  number  of  original  members  is  not 
known.  For  a  time  it  was  supplied  by  Rev.  David  Mills.  In 
1828  a  call  was  extended  to  Rev.  J.  P.  Kennedy  for  the  fourth  of 
his  time,  the  remainder  being  asked  by  the  Cherry  Tree  church. 
These  calls  he  acce2:)ted,  and  was  installed  in  the  charge,  July  14, 
1858.  He  was  released  from  this  church,  April  24,  1800.  After 
this  it  had  only  occasional  supplies.  At  length,  the  promise  of 
growth  entertained  at  the  organization  not  being  realized,  it  was 
dissolved  by  the  Presbytery,  October  4,  1865.  This  church  was 
located  in  the  north-eastern  part  of  Indiana  county,  and  at  its  dis- 
solution the  Presbytery  directed  that  its  members  be  dismissed  to 
Cherry  Tree  or  Mount  Pleasant,  as  might  best  suit  their  convenience. 
The  church  of  Rockbridge,  now  in  a  line  between  the  two  last 
named,  was  not  organized  until  January  27,  1869. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  289 


PINE  RUN. 


TTTTTTTT  TTTTTTTT 


BY    REV.    D.    H,    SLOAN. 


The  Pine  Run  Church  was  organized  by  the  Presbytery  of 
Blairsville,  February  3,  1874,  with  forty-five  members  and  four 
elders,  Revs.  D.  Kirkpatrick  and  C.  B.  Bristol  being  the  com- 
mittee of  organization.  For  a  time  it  had  Mr.,  now  Rev.  Dr.  A. 
McElwain,  for  a  supply.  In  January,  1861,  Rev.  T.  S.  Leason  be- 
came its  pastor  in  connection  with  Leechburg,  and  continued  until 
January  10,  1855.  Then  for  over  two  years  it  had  only  occasional 
supplies.  The  Presbytery  of  Saltsburg  being  organized,  January 
6,  1859,  this  church  became  a  component  part  of  it.  "  Mr.  Robert 
McMillan,  grandson  of  Dr.  McMillan,  patriarch  of  Presb^^terianism 
in  Western  Pennsylvania,"  having  accepted  calls  from  this  church 
and  Warren,  (now  Apollo)  was  ordained  and  installed  in  the 
charge,  August  25,  1857,  Rev.  John  Stark  preaching  the 
sermon.  Rev.  S.  M.  McClung  making  the  ordaining  prayer. 
Rev.  T.  S.  Leason  charging  the  pastor,  and  Rev.  W.  W. 
Woodend,  the  people.  The  labors  of  this  man  of  God  were 
highly  prized  by  the  people.  In  a  few  years,  however,  his 
health  began  to  fail.  As  early  as  October  11,  1861,  the  Pres- 
bytery sent  supplies  to  the  charge  with  a  view  to  give  him  rest  and 
relief.  During  1863,  or  the  greater  part  of  it,  he  was  too  ill  to 
render  service,  the  people  only  consenting  to  his  resignation  when 
all  hope  of  recovery  was  lost.  He  was  released  from  this  church 
April  13,  1864,  and  from  the  other  part  of  his  charge,  June  29th 
following.  His  death  occurred  August  1,  1864,  in  Lancaster 
county,  Pa.,  at  the  residence  of  his  wife's  father.      He  was  born  in 

37 


290  HISTORY    OF    THE 


Washington  county,  Pa.,  March  10,  1829;  graduated  from  Jeffer- 
son College,  1860;  studied  theology  partly  under  Rev.  John  Stock- 
ton, D.  D.,  of  Cross  Creek,  and  partly  in  the  Western  Theologi- 
cal Seminary;  and  was  licensed  by  the  Presbytery  of  Washington, 
April  17,  1856.  In  1857  he  was  married  to  Miss  Elizabeth  White. 
His  memory  is  tenderly  cherished  by  the  people  who  were  once 
his  spiritual  charge. 

The  church  was  not  long  without  a  pastor.  Mr.  John  Orr,  a 
licentiate  of  the  Presbytery,  having  accepted  calls  from  this  church 
and  Warren,  each  for  half  time,  was  ordained  and  installed,  De- 
cember 28,  1864,  Rev.  T.  D.  Ewing  preaching  the  sermon.  Rev.  J. 
M.  Jones  presiding  and  offering  the  ordaining  prayer,  Rev.  F.  Orr 
charging  the  pastor,  and  Dr.  Donaldson  the  people.  "  To  a  very- 
worthy  pastor  ne  was  a  not  less  worthy  successor."  On  account  of 
a  nervous  aflection  of  the  eyes  forbidding  any  protracted  use  of 
them  as  in  reading  and  writing,  he  was  obliged  to  resign  his  charge, 
being  released  from  Pine  Run,  October  12, 1871,  and  from  Apollo, 
April  3,  1872.  In  the  last  named  year  he  made  a  trip  to  Europe 
for  his  health,  but  without  permanent  improvement.  For  some 
years  he  resided  at  Kilbourne  City,  Wis.,  where  he  sustained  a  great 
loss  in  the  death  of  his  wife.  During  later  years  he  has  had  his 
residence  in  Pittsburgh,  still  retaining  his  connection  with  the 
Presbytery.  Although  engaging  occasionally  in  evangelistic  ser- 
vices, he  has  not  felt  able  to  undertake  a  pastoral  charge. 

By  the  reorganization  of  the  Presbyteries  in  1870,  this  church 
fell  to  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville,  its  mother  Presbytery,  and 
with  the  release  of  Mr.  Orr  in  1871,  its  connection  with  the  Pres- 
bytery of  Kittanning  ceased.  In  1872,  it  had  as  a  stated  supply, 
Mr.  J.  Horner  Kerr,  a  licentiate.  About  1874  it  secured  a  pastor, 
faithful  and  beloved,  in  Rev.  J.  Molton  Jones,  who  remained,  giv- 
ing his  entire  time  to  the  church,  until  June,  1887.  During  a 
portion  of  this  time,  in  addition  to  his  pastoral  labors,  he  conducted 
at  Markle  a  classical  school,  a  work  in  which  he  delighted,  and  in 
which  he  had  much  previous  experience  and  success.  Since  Mr. 
Jones'  release  the  church  has  had  preaching  by  supplies.  The 
church  was  reported  in  1877  as  having  168  members,  including 
three  ruling  elders. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  291 


PLUM  CREEK,  ARMSTRONG  COUNTY. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY    REV.    D.    H.    SLOAN. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


The  date  of  the  organization  of  this  church  can    not  be  ascer- 
tained.    Formal  organization   it  probably  never  had.        It  is  men- 
tioned in  the  minutes  of  the  Presbytery  of  Redstone  by  the   name 
"  Upper  Plumb  Creek,"  under  date  of  April  19,  1814.     The  name 
appears  in  the  list   of  vacant  churches,  making  application  for  sup- 
plies.    It  was  located  in  Armstrong  county,  about  two  miles  north 
east  of  the  present  village  of  Elderton.       Very  little  of  its  history 
has  been  ascertained.     It  is  several  times  mentioned  in  the  minutes 
of  Redstone  as   "  Lower   Plumb   Creek."       Thus,  under  date  of 
April  18,  1821:    "  The  congregations  of  Harmony,  Lower  Plumb 
Creek    and  Glade    Run  presented  a  request  for   the    Rev.  David 
Barclay  as  a   stated  supply,  which  was    granted."       Again,  under 
date  of  October  3,  1827 :     "  The    congregations  of  Lower  Plumb 
Creek  and  Glade  Run  requested  that  the  Rev.   David  Barcla\'  be 
continued  as  a  stated  supply,  which  was  granted."     From  the  same 
minutes   it    appeal's  that   this    congregation    presented,  October  8 
1828,  a  call  for  the   sei'vices  of  Mr.   Elisha  D.    Barrett,  half  time 
promismg  him  a  salary  of  two   hundred  dollars  per  year.       At  the 
same  time   Glade  Run  presented    a  similar  call,  which  calls   Mr. 
Barrett  accepted.       On  the  9th  of  December,  1828,  the  Presbytery 
met  at  the  church,  and  ordained  and  installed  Mr.  Barrett,  the  Rev 
Jesse  Smith  preaching  the  sermon  on  the  occasion,  and  the  Rev 
John  Reed  presiding  and  giving  the  charge.  In  1830,  the  two  con 
gregations  together  were  reported  as  having  247  members.     In  this 
year  it  was    one  of  the    churches   with  which    the    Presbytery  of 


292  HiSTonv  of  the 


Blairsville  was  constituted.  Mr.  Barrett's  pastorate  in  connection 
with  this  church  seems  to  have  continued  until  1839.  vSmith's 
history  of  Armstrong  county  contains  this  statement:  "  Rev.  E. 
D.  Barrett  (was)  a  graduate  of  Williams'  College  and  a  class- 
mate of  Wm.  Cullen  Bryant." 

The  church  edifice  is  reported  to  have  been  of  stone,  but  the 
year  of  its  erection  has  not  been  ascertained.  As  to  the  condition 
and  history  of  the  congregation  after  .1839,  Dr.  Donaldson  in  his 
history  of  churches,  prepared  in  1878,  has  this  language:  "As  its 
house  of  worship  was  dilapidated,  and  the  location  too  remote  from 
Elderton  to  accommodate  the  villagers,  and  moreover  the  congrega- 
tion had  been  greatly  weakened  by  the  organization  of  a  church 
six  miles  distant,  it  seldom  afterward  had  even  supplies.  In  1845 
Blairsville  Presbytery  disbanded  it  and  attached  the  members  to 
neighboring  churches." 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  293 


PLUM  CREEK,  WESTMORELAND  COUNTY. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY    REV,    D.    H.    SLOAN. 


The  early  name  of  this  church  was  Ebeiiezer,  and  it  was 
among  the  first  organizations  west  of  the  mountains.  In  the  min- 
utes of  the  Presbytery  of  Redstone,  under  date  of  "  ye  18th  of 
October,  1791,"  it  appears  that  "  Ebenezeron  Pukaty,"  along  with 
certain  other  congregations,  applied  to  the  Presbytery  for  supplies, 
and  Mr.  McPherrin  was  appointed  to  preach  one  Sabbath  at  dis- 
cretion. The  first  pastor  of  the  church  was  Rev.  Francis  Laird, 
who  was  ordained  and  installed  over  this  church  and  that  of  Poke 
Run,  June  20,  1800.  About  this  time  the  name  of  the  church,  for 
some  reason,  was  changed  to  Plum  Creek.  Mr.  Laird's  pastorate 
continued  until  April,  1831. 

The  next  pastor  was  Rev.  Samuel  Montgomery,  who  was 
installed,  January  9,  1833,  Rev.  James  Campbell  preaching,  Rev. 
F.  Laird  giving  the  charge  to  the  pastor,  and  Rev.  J.  Graham  to 
the  people.  Mr.  Montgomery  was  released  from  his  charge,  April 
29,  1834.  He  was  succeeded  by  Rev.  Samuel  McClung,  who, 
after  serving  as  a  stated  supply  for  a  time,  accepted  calls  from  this 
church  and  Cross  Roads,  and  was  installed  in  the  charge,  June  20, 
1837,  Rev.  James  Graham  preaching  the  sermon,  and  Revs.  F. 
Laird  and  A.  Torrance  giving  respectively  the  charges  to  the  pastor 
and  people. 

This  church  was  included  in  the  Presbytery  of  Saltsburg  at  its 
organization,  January  6,  1857,  and  so  continued  until  by  the  recon- 
struction in  1870,  it  was  restored  to    its  former  connection  with  the 


294:  HISTORY    OF    TKE 


Presbytery  of  Blairsville.  The  pastorate  of  ^'[r.  McClung  con- 
tinued until  April  13,  1859,  a  period  of  nearly  twenty-two  years, 
when,  owing  to  failing  health,  he  was  released.  He  was  succeeded 
by  Rev.  George  M.  Spargrove,  who  was  installed  the  second 
Wednesday  of  June,  1861,  Rev.  Robert  McMillan  preachings 
Rev.  D.  W.  Townsend  presiding,  and  Rev.  J.  E.  Caruthers  giving 
the  charges.     This  relation  continued  until  April  12,  1865. 

The  next  pastor  was  Rev.  J.  D.  Moorhead,  who  was  ordained 
and  installed,  November  2,  1865,  Rev.  T.  D.  Ewing  preaching  the 
sermon,  Rev.  John  Orr  offering  the  ordaining  prayer,  and  Revs. 
W.  W.  Woodend  and  D.  W.  Townsend  giving  the  charges  to  the 
pastor  and  people  respectively.  Mr.  Moorhead's  pastorate  con- 
tinued until  February  22,  1872.  He  was  succeeded  by  Rev.  J.  M. 
Hamilton,  whose  installation  took  place  November  18,  1873,  Rev, 
J.  P.  Kennedy  preaching  the  sermon.  Rev.  R.  Caruthers  giving 
the  charge  to  the  pastor,  and  Rev.  G.  M.  Spargrove  to  the  people. 
The  pastorate  of  Mr.  Hamilton  continued  until  about  the  end  of 
1886.  In  the  fall  of  1887,  Rev.  Thomas  B.  Anderson  became  pas- 
tor of  Plum  Creek  in  connection  with  Laird,  and  so  continues. 

Owing  to  the  lack  of  the  necessary  data  at  hand  and  the  fact 
that  this  church  is  now  a  component  part  of  another  Presbytery, 
full  details  of  its  history  and  the  life  and  work  of  its  pastors  are  not 
attempted.  The  same  remark  may  be  made  as  to  Blacklick, 
Parnassus  and  Pine  Run. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  295 


PLUMVILLE. 


rrrrrrrrTTTTTTTT 


BY    REV.   JAMES    M.    KELLY. 


ORGANIZATION. 

A  petition  was  presented  to  the  Presbytery  of  Saltsburg  at  the 
April  meeting  in  1864,  asking  for  an  organization  in  the  village  of 
Plumville,  Indiana  county,  Pa.  The  request  was  granted,  and 
Revs.  John  Caruthers,  W.  F.  Morgan  and  G.  W.  Mechlin,  with 
elders  John  McClelland  and  William  Wallace  were  appointed  a 
committee  to  effect  the  organization.  This  committee  met  on  the 
3d  day  of  June,  1864,  in  the  school  house  of  Plumville  and  organ- 
ized  Plumville  Presbyterian  Church, 

The  original  members  were  the  following:  Thomas  Wadding 
Eliza  Wadding,  George  Johnston,  Harriet  Johnston,  Henrietta 
Johnston,  Phoebe  Johnston,  William  Wilson,  Jane  Wilson,  Walter 
Templeton,  Jane  Templeton,  Thomas  Waddle,  Catharine  Waddle, 
Margaret  Shields,  Mary  J.  Shields,  Patrick  Lydick,  Jane  A. 
Lydick,  S.  E.  Lydick,  John  Trusal,  Elizabeth  Trusal,  Peter 
Sutton,  Annie  Sutton,  Sarah  vSutton,  Mary  E.  Sutton,  N.  C.  Sut- 
ton. The  first  seventeen  of  these  original  members  were  received 
by  certificate  from  Washington  Presbyterian  church,  the  last  seven 
from  Rural  Valley. 

PASTORS    AND    STATED    SUPPLIES. 

Rev.  y.  M.  Jones  was  the  first  supply.  He  served  the  church 
from  the  organization  until  June,  1868.  During  this  period  thirty 
persons  were  admitted  to  the  church,  and  $77.00  were  contributed 
to  the  benevolent  objects  of  the   church.       After  a  vacancy  of  not 


296  HISTORY    OF    THE 


quite  one  year,  Rev.  Carl  Moore  was  called  to  the  pastorate  for  the 
fourth  of  his  time,  Mt.  Pleasant  and  Smicksburg  applying  for  the 
remainder.  He  accepted,  and  was  installed  in  the  charge,  August 
31,  1869.  He  was  released  as  pastor  of  this  church,  December  9, 
1873,  but  served  as  stated  supply  until  the  spring  of  1877.  During 
this  time  sixty-four  members  were  added  to  the  church,  and  $199.00 
were  contributed  to  benevolent  objects.  About  June,  1877,  Rev. 
C.  C.  B.  Duncan  began  to  supply  the  church,  and,  October  17, 
1878,  he  was  called  to  the  pastorate  of  this  church  for  one-fourth 
time.  He  began  serving  this  church  and  Washington  to  which  he 
was  also  called,  but  declined  the  calls,  and  was  dismissed  from  the 
Presbytery,  July  10,  1888.  During  his  period  of  service,  as  above 
indicated,  seven  members  were  added  to  the  roll.  By  the  resigna- 
tion of  Mr.  Duncan  the  pulpit  was  again  made  vacant  for  a  time. 
It  was  statedly  supplied  in  1879  by  Revs.  Helm  and  Leyda. 

In  Ai^ril,  1882,  the  congregation  united  with  Concord,  and  ten- 
dered a  call  to  Rev.  J.  M.  Kelly  for  one-third  of  the  time.  The 
call  was  accepted,  and  the  pastor  began  his  labors,  April  30,  1882. 
He  was  regularly  installed,  July  3,  1882,  by  a  committee  of  the 
Presbytery,  consisting  of  Revs.  A.  H.  Jolly,  A.  T,  Bell  and  J.  H. 
Kerr.  During  the  present  pastorate  120  members  have  been  added 
to  the  communion  of  the  church,  and  $225.00  contributed  to  benevo- 
lent oblects.  The  total  membership  is  now  155,  of  whom  62 
were  added  the  past  year. 

RULING    ELDERS. 

Thomas  Wadding  and  Patrick  Lydick  were  installed  as  ruling 
elders,  June  3,  1864.  Mr.  Lydick  having  been  an  elder  in  the  Wash- 
ington church,  Mr.  Wadding  only  was  ordained  on  this  occasion. 
Mr.  Lydick  died  May  19,  1882.  Mr.  Wadding  is  still  an  honored 
acting  elder  in  the  Plumville  session.  James  M.  Sutton  and  Robert 
F.  Allison  were  installed  as  ruling  elders,  October  31,  1869.  Mr. 
Sutton  was  dismissed  at  his  own  request  in  1871.  Mr.  Allison  died 
January  9,  1876.  R.  A.  Allison  and  H.  H.  Shields  were  elected, 
ordained  and  installed  in  1871.  Mr.  Allison  was  dismissed  at  his 
own  request,  November  15,  1885.  Mr.  Shields  is  still  a  member 
of  the  session.  Mr.  Joseph  Marshall  was  installed  as  ruling  elder, 
September  2,  1876,  and  served  until  June  11,  1886.  W.  A.  Wil- 
son and  A.   Marshall  were  ordained  and   installed  as  ruling  elders. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING. 


June  2,  1883.  On  February  7,  1885,  the  congregation  having 
adopted  the  "  term  service  "  plan,  a  new  election  was  held.  Under 
this  plan  Thomas  Wadding,  H.  H.  Shields,  W.  A.  Wilson  and 
A.  Marshall  were  re-elected  and  installed;  B.  F.  Lydick  was  also 
elected,  ordained  and  installed.  Up  to  this  time  they  have  been  re- 
elected as  their  term  of  office  expired,  and  constitute  the  present 
session. 

CHURCH    BUILDING, 

The  congregation  began  to  build  a  church  edifice  in  the  fall  of 
1865,  and  completed  it  in  the  fall  of  1866.  The  contract  was  let  to 
Mr.  Thomas  Wadding  for  the  sum  of  $1,800.00  for  a  frame  struc- 
ture, 34  by  40  feet.  It  has  since  been  repaired  and  refurnished. 
Although  comfortable  it  is  not  large  enough  to  accommadate  the 
present  congregation.  The  organization  is  at  the  present  time  in  a 
flourishing  condition,  and  the  prospect  for  permanence  and  growth 
in  the  future  is  good. 


298  HISTORY    OF    THE 


RAYNE. 


HY    REV.   J.    C.    AMBROSE. 


Rayne  Presbyterian  Church  was  organized  November  16, 1849, 
by  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville,  through  a  committee  consisting  of 
Revs.  John  Caruthers  and  John  H.  Kirkpatrick.  The  nearest 
Presbyterian  church  at  that  time  was  Washington,  it  being  seven 
miles  distant,  while  Harmony  was  about  the  same  distance  on  the 
other  side.  The  people  in  this  community  attended  one  or  the 
other  of  these  churches,  but  they  had  preaching  occasionally  in  the 
dwelling  houses  and  school  house  close  by  the  present  site  of  this 
church.  A  desire  for  an  organization  was  thus  created,  and  the 
Presbytery  being  petitioned,  appointed  the  above  committee  to 
effect  the  organization.  The  meeting  for  this  purpose  was  held  in 
the  dwelling  of  Mr.  Peter  Kinter.  At  this  time  there  were  twenty- 
three  persons  received  as  members,  as  follows:  Isabella  Kinter, 
Isaac  Kinter,  Hannah  Kinter,  Peter  Kinter,  Agnes  Kinter,  Mary 
Kinter,  Josiah  Kinter,  Sarah  Kinter,  James  Moore,  Ruth  Moore, 
Margaret  Moore,  Matthew  Ra}',  Jane  Ray,  John  Kinter,  Eliza- 
beth Kinter,  James  Kinter,  Nancy  Kinter,  James  McCunn,  Catha- 
rine McCunn,  Sarah  Ann  Kinter,  Philip  Rice,  Abraham  Stuchel, 
Margaret  Kinter. 

The  congregation  continued  to  worship  in  private  houses  and 
school  houses  in  different  parts  of  the  congregation  for  ten  years. 
At  the  end  of  that  time  there  was  a  desire  to  have  a.  regular  place 
and  house  of  worship.  Considerable  difficulty  was  experienced  in 
deciding  on  a  location  for  the  church.  There  v/as  great  diversity 
of  opinion,  some  holding  for  one  place  and  others  for  another,  until 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  299 

finally  some  withdrew  from  the  church.  At  one  time  a  site  was 
agreed  upon  near  the  residence  of  Mr.  John  Kinter,  and  lumber 
was  placed  upon  the  ground,  but  this  was  reconsidered,  and  it  was 
changed  from  there  to  the  present  location.  The  lot  upon  which 
the  present  building  stands  was  then  purchased  and  also  the 
cemetery  connected  with  the  church,  making  in  all  about  one  acre. 

The  first  church  building  was  erected  in  the  year  1859,  at  a  cost 
of  about  $800.00.  It  was  a  plain  frame  building,  with  no  paint 
either  outside  or  in.  Its  seating  capacity  was  about  two  hundred 
and  fifty. 

In  1885,  it  was  found  necessary  to  have  another  building 
erected,  and  here  again  the  location  became  a  subject  of  dispute. 
Some  wanted  to  build  a  quarter  or  half  mile  farther  north,  and 
when  it  was  finally  decided  to  build  upon  the  old  site  another  split 
was  made,  and  some  eight  or  ten  members  withdrew  and  organized 
a  Cumberland  Presbyterian  Church.  They  built  about  one  mile 
from  the  old  church. 

The  new  church  here  was  completed  in  1885,  at  a  cost  of 
$1,400.00.  It  is  a  frame  building,  50  by  35  feet,  with  a  seating 
capacity  of  250.  It  is  a  plain,  but  very  neat  and  substantial  build- 
ing, nicely  finished  outside  and  inside,  and  also  very  nicely  furnished 

The  congregation  had  no  settled  pastor  until  1867.  Rev.  John 
H.  Kirkpatrick  labored  in  the  congregation  for  eleven  years  after 
its  organization.  Rev.  S.  P.  Bollmaa  was  stated  supply  from  1862 
to  1865. 

Rev.  J.  Logan  Sample  was  the  first  settled  pastor.  He  was 
installed,  June  26,  1867,  and  continued  to  serve  the  church  until 
April  13,  1870,  when,  at  his  request,  the  pastoral  relation  was  dis- 
solved. Mr.  Sample's  labors  here  were  greatly  blest,  the  number 
of  members  was  considei'ably  increased,  the  collections  to  the  vari- 
ous boards  were  more  liberal,  and  the  pastor's  salary  was  also 
increased. 

Mr.  Sample  was  succeeded  by  Rev.  A.  T.  Bell,  who  was  the 
second  pastor.  During  the  summer  of  1871,  Mr.  Bell,  then  a 
licentiate  of  Pittsburgh  Presbj'tery,  was  employed  by  the  Kittan- 
ning  Presbytery  to  labor  here.  After  completing  his  course  at  the 
seminary  he  was  called  by  this  church  in  1872,  and  began  his  labors 
there,  October  11,  1872.  He  was  oi'dained  December  31st  of  the 
same  year,  and   installed    pastor  for  one-half   time,  at    a  salary  of 


800  HISTORY    OF    THE 


$450.00  per  year.  This  pastorate  continued  until  April  25,  1882, 
when,  by  his  request,  he  was  released. 

Rev.  A.  H.  Jolly  then  preached  here  as  stated  supply  until  the 
latter  part  of  1884.  From  this  time  until  May,  1887,  the  church 
was  supplied  by  appointments  from  the  Presbytery.  From  May 
29,  1887,  up  to  the  present  writing  the  church  has  been  supplied 
statedly  by  Rev.  John  C.  Ambrose. 

At  the  time  of  organization  in  1849,  James  McCunn,  James 
Kinter  and  Matthew  Ray  were  elected  ruling  elders.  Mr.  Ray 
was  dismissed  to  the  Presbyterian  church  of  Indiana,  March  11, 
1869.  Mr.  Kinter  has  also  been  dismissed.  R.  R.  Ray  and  Josiah 
Kinter  were  elected  in  1857.  Mr.  Ray  was  removed  by  death, 
October  11,  1885. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  301 


ROCKBRIDGE. 


BY    ELDER    W.    H.    STANLEY. 


The  Rockbridge  Presbyterian  Church  is  one  of  the  five  located 
in  the  village  of  Richmond,  Indiana  county,  Pa.,  (Rochester's 
Mills,  P.  O.)  At  a  meeting  of  members  of  the  Presbyterian 
churches  in  the  vicinity,  held  July  4,  1868,  it  was  resolved  to  invite 
Rev.  John  Caruthers,  then  pastor  at  Gilgal,  to  preach  here  one- 
fourth  of  his  time,  to  which  invitation  he  acceeded,  his  labors  here 
dating  from  June  1st  preceding.  An  organization  seeming  desir- 
able, Robert  Lowry  was  commissioned  to  carry  a  petition  to  the 
Presbytery  of  Saltsburg.  This  petition  was  presented  to  the  Pres- 
bytery, and  the  request  granted,  December  29,  1868,  and  Revs.  S. 
P.  Bollman  and  John  Caruthers,  with  elders  Robert  Thompson, 
Sr.,  John  Gourley  and  James  S.  Martin  were  appointed  a  com- 
mittee to  effect  the  organization.  This  committee  met  January  27, 
1869,  and  after  a  sermon  by  Rev.  S.  P.  Bollman  from  Rom.  1 :  16, 
the  church  of  Rockbridge  was  duly  organized. 

The  original  members  were  thirty-three  in  all,  as  follows:  P''rom 
Gilgal-  Eleanor  Ayers,  Mary  Leasure,  Mary  Leasure,  2d,  David 
C.  Leasure,  Eveline  Leasure,  S.  Porter  Black,  Mary  R.  Black, 
Violet  Arthurs,  Isaac  Simpson,  Sarah  Simpson,  John  Moore,  Lucy 
Moore,  Hannah  Doty,  Thomas  Johnston,  Isabella  Johnston, 
Elizabeth  Johnston,  Sarah  J.  McAfoose,  Jemima  Moore,  Samuel 
Stuchell,  Phoebe  Stuchell,  George  Richardson,  Elizabeth  Richard- 
son, Jane  Stanley.  From  Mount  Pleasant — Thomas  Arthurs, 
Samuel  Calderwood,  James  Saltsgiver,  Mrs.  Saltsgiver,  Robert 
Lowry,    Mary     A.    Lowry.     From    Alarion — Samuel     Wingart, 


302  HISTORY    OF    THE 


Keziah  Wingart.  From  Clarinda^  loxva — William  T.  Collins, 
Harriet  J.  Collins. 

The  first  pastor  of  the  church  was  Rev.  John  Caruthers,  who 
was  installed  for  the  fourth  of  his  time,  May  6, 1869,  and  continued 
to  serve  until  October  1,  1872.  During  the  summers  of  1878  and 
1874,  Mr.  Johnston  McGaughey,  a  licentiate,  supplied  the  church 
a  period  of  six  months  each  year,  and  in  the  intervals  there  were 
occasional  supplies  from  the  Presbytery.  During  the  wmter  sea- 
sons of  1875-7  Rev.  Andrew  Virtue,  then  pastor  at  Centre,  held 
a  series  of  meetings  and  preached  occassionally,  and  through  his 
labors  the  chuich  was  revived  and  blessed.  For  six  months  in  the 
summer  of  1876,  Mr.  A.  F.  Irwin,  a  licentiate  of  the  Presbytery, 
supplied  with  acceptance  this  chvuxh  and  Mount  Pleasant. 

In  the  spring  of  1877,  Mr.  William  F.  Gibson,  then  a  licentiate^ 
began  to  supply  this  church  in  connection  with  Mount  Pleasant 
and  Gilgal,  giving  one-third  of  his  time  to  each  place.  Calls  being 
made  out  for  him,  he  accepted  them,  and  was  ordained  at  Marion, 
June  28,  1877,  and  installed  in  the  charge,  July  7th,  following,  ser- 
vice being  at  Gilgal.  His  pastorate  continued  until  April  25,1882, 
when  he  was  released  at  his  own  request. 

At  a  meeting  of  the  congregation  held  March  1,  1883,  a  call 
vv^as  made  out  for  the  services  of  Mr.  A.  S.  Elliott,  in  connection 
with  the  other  two  churches  of  the  charge.  Having  accepted 
these  calls,  and  having  been  ordained  at  Mechanicsburg,  June  26, 
1883,  he  was  duly  installed  in  the  charge,  July  31st,  following,  the 
service  being  in  this  church.  He  was  released  April  23d  of  the 
following  year. 

Rev.  William  F.  Gibson  began  preaching  November  9,  1884, 
and  being  called  to  the  churches  of  his  former  charge,  he  was 
installed  May  12,  1885.  He  remained  to  November  9,  1886,  hav- 
ing been  released  by  the  Presbytery,  October  12th  preceding. 

Rev.  Franklin  Orr  supplied  the  church  for  four  months,  end- 
ing April  17,  1887,  and  Rev.  J.  C.  Ambrose  for  six  months  from 
June  1st  of  the  same  year. 

In  connection  with  a  communion  service  held  October  1,  1871, 
by  Rev.  John  Caruthers,  assisted  by  Rev.  James  Caldwell,  at  a 
congregational  meeting,  a  committee  consisting  of  D.  C.  Leasure, 
Samuel  Calderwood,  George  Richai'dson,  Samuel  Stuchel  and 
Robert    Lowry  was    appointed  to    secure    ground,  and  to    build  a 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  303 

house  of  worship.  A  lot  of  about  half  an  acre,  valued  at  $150, 
was  secured  as  a  donation  from  Mr.  Q.  Armstrong.  The  house 
was  built  in  1873.  It  is  a  studding  frame,  35  by  55  feet,  with 
vestibule,  belfry  and  steeple,  the  latter  about  70  feet  high.  The 
audience  room  is  finished  in  chestnut  wood.  The  spire  was  struck 
by  lightning,  June  20,  1887,  and  damaged  to  the  amount  of  $108, 
which  was  paid  by  the  insurance  company. 

At  the  time  of  organization  Samuel  Stuchel,  Robert  Lowry, 
Samuel  Calderwood  and  D.  C.  Leasure  were  chosen  as  elders.  The 
last  named  declined  to  serve.  Mr.  Stuchel,  who  had  been  an  elder 
at  Gilgal,  was  installed,  and  the  other  two  were  ordained  and  in- 
stalled. Additions  to  the  session  have  been  as  fellows:  March  3, 
1869,  James  Saltsgiver,  who  was  dismissed  September  2,  1871; 
November  13,  1875,  Aaron  H.  Braughler  and  WilHam  H.  Stanley. 
Robert  Lowry  first  served  as  clerk  of  the  session.  This  office  since 
April  9,  1887,  has  been  filled  by  William  H.  Stanley. 

The  following  have  served  as  trustees,  viz:  D.  C.  Leasure,  S. 
P.  Black,  F.  S.  Black,  D.  J.  Braughler,  J.  D.  Johnston,  Thomas 
Johnston,  Johnson  Sutton,  T.  M.  Moore,  W.  M.  Stuchel,  R.  H. 
Work,  Jr.,  R.  Lowry,  George  Richardson,  J.  H.  Black,  William 
H.  Stanley.  The  present  board  are  Robert  Lowry,  President; 
William  M.  Stuchel,  Secretary;  J.  D.  Johnston,  Treasurer;  John- 
son Sutton,  R.  H.  Work,  Jr.,  William  H.  Stanley. 

Previous  to  1872  the  Presbyterian  and  United  Brethren  churches 
held  a  union  Sabbath  Schoo^.  But  in  the  spring  of  that  year  the 
U.  B.  Church  decided  to  organize  separately,  and  as  the  Presby- 
terians were  using  their  building,  the}^  also  then  organized  sepai^ately, 
meeting  for  two  summers  in  the  upper  story  of  an  unfinished  house 
belonging  to  Robert  Miller.  At  that  time  Samuel  Stuchel  was 
superintendent.  Others  who  have  served  in  the  same  office  for 
longer  or  shorter  periods  have  been  Robert  Lowry,  William  H. 
Stanley,  Aaron  H.  Braughler,  R.  H.  Work,  Jr. 

Seasons  of  special  interest  in  the  church  were  in  the  winter  of 
1875,  in  connection  with  the  labors  of  Rev.  A.  Virtue,  and  early  in 
1885,  during  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  W.  F.  Gibson.  The  report 
made  in  April,  1885,  shows  22  additions  on  profession  for  the  year. 

The  whole  number  of  names  on  the  roll  of  communicants  is 
131.  The  present  number  of  active  members  is  82.  The  number 
of  infant  baptisms  recorded  is  29. 


304  HISTORY    OF    THE 


RURAL  VALLEY. 


TTtTTTITTTTTTTTT 


BY    REV.    NEWTON    B.    KELLY 


rrTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


ORGANIZATION. 


Rural  Valley  Church  was  organized  August  1, 1835.  A  num- 
ber of  Christian  people  had  been  accustomed  to  meet  in  a  house 
built  for  church  and  school  purposes,  at  a  point  eight  miles  east  of 
Kittanning,  and  two  miles  west  of  Rural  Village.  The  place  is 
now  marked  by  a  grove  and  a  little  cemetery,  at  the  entrance  of  a 
quiet  dell  that  runs  down  from  the  hills,  and  widens  out  near  the 
road  side,  where  it  is  lost  in  the  valley.  The  traveler  from  Kittan- 
ning to  Rural  Village  passes  this  peaceful  spot  where  sleep  the 
dead  of  Rural  Valley  church.  This  plot  of  ground  had  been 
donated  to  the  inhabitants  by  Hon.  William  Findley,  and  here  they 
had  established  a  Sabbath  School.  They  also  met  for  divine  wor- 
ship, and  had  joined  the  church  of  Kittanning  in  engaging  Rev. 
Joseph  Painter  to  preach.  In  April,  1835,  they  applied  to  Blairs- 
ville  Presbytery  for  a  church  organization.  Their  petition  was 
granted,  and  Rev.  Joseph  Painter  and  Rev.  Elisha  D.  Barrett  were 
appointed  a  committee  to  organize  the  church.  The  committee 
met  the  congregation  on  August  1,  1835.  On  that  day.  Rev.  Jos. 
Painter  preached  a  sermon  on  the  eldership,  after  which  he  was 
chosen  Chairman  and  Alexander  Foster,  Secretary.  Ebenezer 
Smith,  Richard  E.  Caruthers,  William  Mcintosh  and  John  Alcorn 
were  elected  to  the  office  of  ruling  elders. 

The  organization  of  the  church  was  consummated  on  August  20, 
1835,  by  the  ordination  of  Elders  Caruthers  and  Mcintosh,  and  by 


PRESBVTERV    OF    KITTANxVING.  305 

reception  of  members.  John  Alcorn  declined  to  serve  as  elder. 
Ebenezer  Smith  had  been  an  elder  in  Cross  Creek  church,  Wash- 
ington county,  and  was  installed. 

The  following  is  the  list  of  original  members:  Ebenezer  Smith, 
Maria  Smith,  Richard  Caruthers,  Eleanor  Caruthers,  Lyle  Kerr, 
Ann  Kerr,  Samuel  McKorkle,  Eliza  McKorkle,  William  Mcintosh, 
Margaret  Mcintosh,  John  Alcorn,  Mrs.  Alcorn,  Alexander  Foster, 
Martha  Foster,  John  Stoops,  Catharine  Stoops,  Arabana  Hanegan, 
William  McCain,  Isabella  McCain,  James  White,  Robert  Mcintosh, 
William  Powers,  Mary  Powers,  Elizabeth  Reed,  James  Elgin, 
Martha  Elgin. 

On  August  22,  1835,  "  the  sacrament  of  the  Lord's  Supper  was 
administered  for  the  first  time  in  this  part  of  the  valley,  in  the  pres- 
ence of  a  large  congregation,  and  the  season  was  interesting  and 
solemn  in  a  high  degree,"  and  to  this,  penned  in  the  record  by  the 
hand  of  Rev.  Joseph  Painter,  is  added  the  prayer:  "  May  the  Lord 
iichold  and  visit  this  vine,  which  we  hope  his  right  hand  hath 
planted  and  water  it  abundantly,  and  cause  it  to  grow  and  be  fruit- 
ful till  it  fill  the  valley." 

EDIFICES. 

The  original  building  was  of  logs,  24  by  24  feet.  It  was 
square  as  the  life  and  character  of  its  builders,  as  humble  and 
simple.  Outgrowing  it,  they  simply  laid  open  one  side  and  built  on 
an  addition.  It  was  heated  by  a  single  stove.  "Well  do  I  remem- 
ber it,"  says  one,  then  a  boy.  "  In  v.'inter  going  to  church  was  to 
me  an  ordeal.  The  chilly  atmosphei-e  scarcely  affected  by  the 
solitary  stove  presented  a  rather  unfavorable  condition  for  the 
development  of  piety  in  a  boy."  And  j-et  boys  then  and  there  be- 
came possessed  somehow  of  a  singularly  substantial  piety. 

"  The  pulpit  was  a  ten-bushel  store  box  set  endwise,  and  the 
seats  of  oak  slabs,  the  sawed  sides  upward,  and  each  supported  by 
four  wooden  legs." 

Within  two  years  from  organization  the  question  of  removal  to 
a  site  in  Rural  Village  came  up.  The  question  became  an  excitino- 
one.  A  congregational  meeting  was  called  in  May,  1836. 
Ebenezer  Smith  was  chosen  Chairman  and  Archibald  L.  Robin- 
son, Seci'etary.  At  this  meeting  a  motion  was  offered  looking-  to 
the  removal.       William    McCain,    "  a  ready  and  voluble    speaker, 

39 


306  HISTORY    OK    THE 


"undertook  to  prevent  the  taking  of  the  vote  by  a  time-killin;^'^ 
speech.  liut  Mr.  John  Patterson  interrupted  the  speaker, 
moved  that  the  resohition  be  reduced  to  writing,  and  cut  short  Mr. 
McCain's  long  speecli  by  caHing  for  the  question.  It  was  decided 
by  a  large  majority  to  locate  the  church  at  Rural  Village.  Mr. 
William  McCain  was  afterwards,  as  before,  a  faithful  trustee  in  the 
church.  John  Patterson  gave  two  lots,  Nos.  1  and  2,  on  the 
north  side  of  Main  street  in  the  old  plot  of  the  village  for  the 
erection  of  the  new  chinch  and  for  church  purposes.  But  the 
people  preferring  to  !iave  their  new  edifice  on  higher  ground  and  a 
little  out  of  the  town,  Alex.  Foster,  Sr.,  gave  an  acre  of  the  John 
Craig  tract  called  "  Leeds."  This  joins  the  lots  given  by  Mr.  Pat- 
terson. On  this  ground  a  church  building  was  erected  in  1837  or 
1838.  It  was  of  brick,  thirty  by  forty  feet.  It  was  defective  in 
architecture.  The  walls  of  it  began  to  bulge  and  it  was  abandoned 
in  1849. 

A  new  frame  building  was  erected  in  1850  on  the  lots  given  to 
the  churcli  by  John  Patterson.  This  building  is  fifty-one  by  sixty- 
one  feet.  It  is  one  of  the  old  "  squat  "  churches.  Its  roof  is  self- 
supporting,  having  no  posts  under  its  centre.  Rev.  Mr.  Kerr  had 
the  old  high  pulpit  taken  down  and  a  modern  pulpit  platform 
erected,  the  only  change  made  since  the  house  was  built.  It  is 
soon   to  be  replaced  by  a  modern  structure. 

PASTORS. 

Rev.  Joseph  Painter  was  the  first  minister  of  this  church.  He 
came  from  Newberry,  Pa.,  in  answer  to  an  invitation  from  officers 
of  the  First  church  of  Kittanning,  which  read:  "In  accordance 
with  the  un.tnimous  wish  of  the  members  of  the  Presbyterian 
church  here  and  of  some  of  the  prominent  citizens  of  Rural  Valley, 
etc."  Dr.  Painter  began  to  preach  at  Rural  Valley  in  Mav,  18y4, 
giving  on-e-fourth  time  to  the  Valley.  His  salary  was  $80,  paya- 
ble in  produce  at  market  price  in  Kittanning.  His  congregations 
were  at  first  small.  After  the  organization  of  the  church  he 
preached  one-third  of  his  time  in  Rural  Valley.  The  church 
flourished  under  his  ministry  and  grew  so  that  in  the  fall  of  1840, 
eighty  members  having  been  added,  it  became  strong  enough  to 
support  a  minister  for  half-time.  Dr.  Painter  then  declined  serving 
them  longer. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  307 

Rev.  James  D.  IMason  was  ihe  first  pastor  of  this  church,  his 
time  being  equally  divided  between  Glade  Run  and  Rural  Valley, 
from  June  16,  1843,  to  April  4,  1848.  During  this  pastorate 
eighty-two  were  added  to  the  church,  Mr.  Mason  established  an 
academy  at  Rural  Village  in  1846,  in  the  church  edifice.  This 
school  had  from  twenty-five  to  thirty  pupils  in  attendance,  and  was 
sustained  until  1884.  Mr.  Mason  removed  in  1848,  and  now 
resides  in  Iowa. 

Rev.  Cochran  Forbes  served  as  pastor  from  January  1,  1849,  to 
April  12,  1854,  half-time  at  Glade  Run.  Mr.  Forbes  had  been  a 
missionary  in  the  Sandwich  Islands  for  seventeen  years.  His  min- 
istry contributed  to  the  growth  of  interest  in  missions  and  temper- 
ance. There  was  a  revival  in  the  church  in  his  time,  in  1851, 
when  thirty-six  joined  the  church  on  profession,  and  ten  by  cer- 
tificate. Mr.  Forbes  received  129  into  membership.  He  after- 
wards served  five  years  as  pastor  of  Glade  Run  and  Concord,  and 
some  years  in  the  state  of  Indiana.  At  the  time  of  his  recent 
death  in  Philadelphia,  he  was  chaplain  of  the  Presbyterian  hospital 
in  that  city. 

Rev.  William  F.  Morgan  was  the  third  pastor.  His  entire 
ministerial  life  was  spent  on  this  ground.  He  was  born  in  Lan- 
caster county.  May  19,  1822;  principally  reared  in  Washington 
county;  graduated  at  Jefferson  College  in  1851,  and  the  Western 
Theological  Seminary  in  1854.  He  was  licensed  early  in  1854  by 
the  Presbytery  of  Ohio.  He  preached  first  at  Rural  Valley  the 
third  Sabbath  of  March,  1855.  He  was  ordained  and  installed 
January  31,  1856.  He  preached  his  last  sermon  the  third  Sabbath 
in  March,  1875.  He  died  on  the  25th  of  April,  1875,  and  is  buried 
in  Rural  Valley  cemetery. 

Mr.  Morgan's  pastorate  was  twenty  years  in  length.  He 
preached  one-third  time  at  Elderton  as  pastor  till  1873,  after  which 
he  was  stated  supply  of  Smicksburg  church  for  one-third  of  his  time. 
He  received  280  into  this  church.  He  married  122  couples  in  his 
pastorate.  He  was  a  pastor  of  untiring  activity,  and  is  spoken  of 
as  pre-eminently  a  ■pastor.  His  devotion  to  educational  interests 
was  marked  and  is  often  mentioned.  The  author  of  the  history  of 
Armstrong  county  says  of  him,  "  He  was  an  active  and  acceptable 
co-worker  in  advancing  the  educational  interests  of  Cowanshannock 


808  HISTORY    OF    THE 


township."  His  family  now  reside  at  Wooster,  Ohio,  where  his 
children  are  being  educated. 

Rev.  J.  Horner  Kerr  was  called  to  the  pastorate  in  June,  1876. 
He  was  received  from  the  Presbytery  of  Carlisle  and  installed, 
June  29,  1876.  The  eniire  pastoral  services  of  Mr.  Kerr  were 
given  to  this  church.  He  was  dismissed  June  9,  1885,  and  is 
now  at  Centre  Hall,  Centre  county.  Pa.  Mr.  Kerr  received  104 
into  the  communion  of  this  church,  and  baptized  eighty-six  persons. 

Rev.  Newton  B.  Kelly  was  engaged  to  supply  in  January, 
1887,  and  was  soon  after  called  to  be  pastor  over  the  charge  of 
Rural  Valley  and  Atwood.  A  revival  followed  in  February, 
resulting  in  an  addition  of  110  to  the  membership  on  profession. 
Mr.  Kelly  was  installed,  December  1,  1887. 

ELDERSHIP. 

Ebenezer  Smith,  one  of  the  first  elders,  had  been  an  elder  in 
Cross  Creek  church,  Washington  county.  His  term  of  service 
here  was  thirteen  years.  He  removed  in  1848.  "  While  here  he 
was  the  leading  man  in  Rural  Valley  church." 

Richard  E.  Caruthers  ceased  to  act  in  1838,  being  estranged 
from  the  church  on  account  of  its  removal  from  original  site.  He 
came  to  Rural  Valley  in  1830  from  Westmoreland  county.  He 
was  married  to  a  daughter  of  Wm.  Findley,  a  man  prominent  in 
public  life  in  the  early  history  of  Western  Pennsylvania.  Mr. 
Caruthers  was  the  leading  spirit  in  the  organization  of  Rural 
Valley  church.  He  w^as  the  father  of  six  sons  and  six  daughters. 
Three  of  the  sons  were  ministers.  John  was  for  thirty  years  pastor 
of  churches  in  Indiana  county.  R.  Alexander  attained  the  dis- 
tinction of  presiding  elder  in  the  M.  E.  church.  James  E.  served 
as  an  elder  in  the  room  of  his  father,  and  then  entered  the  minis- 
try. Another  son,  Thomas,  gave  a  son  to  the  ministry.  A  son  of 
James  E.  has  recently  become  a  minister.  A  daughter,  Eleanor, 
wife  of  a  Mr.  Wm.  Findley,  gave  two  sons  to  the  ministry  of  our 
church.  Another  daughter,  Nancy,  became  the  wife  of  a  Method- 
ist minister.  There  are  still  members  of  this  noble  family  in 
Rural  Valley  church,  a  "  godly  seed." 

William  Mcintosh  died,  July  18,  1877.  He  had  served  forty- 
two  years.  His  son,  A.  J.  Mcintosh,  is  now  an  elder  in  the  room  of 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  309 

his  father,  and  a  daughter,  Mrs.  James  McKelvy,  is  a  teacher  in 
our  Sabbath  School. 

Samuel  Fleming  and  George  Stewart  were  ordained  by  Rev. 
Joseph  Painter,  December  14,  1839.  George  Stewai^t  served 
fifteen  years.  He  united  with  the  Cross  Creek  church,  Washing- 
ton county,  in  the  time  of  a  great  revival.  He  died  December  19, 
1854,  His  zeal  for  the  church  was  marked.  Samuel  Fleming 
was  an  elder  forty-seven  years.  He  and  George  Stewart  were 
converted  at  the  same  time  and  place.  He  died  October  13,  1886. 
He  was  a  pillar  in  the  church.  His  home  was  a  centre  of  Chris- 
tian influence.  His  son,  Rev.  Samuel  B.  Fleming,  is  now  super- 
intendent of  Home  Missions  in  the  State  of  Kansas,  having  been 
appointed  to  that  position  from  the  pastorate  of  Arkansas  City. 
Members  of  this  family  are  still  in  this  church.  A  son-in-law  has 
been  trustee  for  three  years. 

Hamlet  Totten  was  ordained  an  elder  in  the  Kittanning  church, 
November  14,  1834,  the  date  of  the  installation  of  Dr.  Painter.  He 
was  installed  in  Rural  Valley  in  1848,  and  has  been  clerk  of  session 
ever  since,  over  thirty-nine  years.  He  was  born,  January  27, 1802. 
He  has  recently  devoted  himself  to  the  work  of  preparing  the 
boolcs  of  his  office  that  he  might  leave  them  in  good  shape.  His 
last  years  are  spent  in  retirement  and  great  devotion  to  the  church. 
He  has  in  his  time  attended  twenty-five  meetings  of  Presbytery, 
and  five  of  Synod.  He  represented  the  Presbytery  of  Saltsburg 
in  the  General  Assembly  of  1859,  which  met  at   Indianapolis,  Ind. 

Adam  McConnell,  James  E.  Caruthers  and  Isaac  Rhea  were 
ordained  as  elders  by  Mr.  Forbes,  April  1,  1851.  Adam  McCon- 
nel  was  an  elder  thirty-one  years.  He  died  March  6,  1882.  He 
was  never  married.  He  devoted  himself  to  this  good  work.  The 
service  of  the  Lord  gave  him  a  ready  sympathy  of  heart  and 
freshness  of  life.     "  He  was  a  very  substantial  Christian." 

James  E.  Caruthers  was  an  active  resident  elder  for  four  years. 
"  By  the  will  of  his  father  he  was  entrusted  with  the  charge  of 
his  aged  mother,  and  piously  he  fulfilled  the  commission,  even  at  ' 
the  expense  of  keeping  him  back  for  ten  long  years  from  the  min- 
istry to  which  already  his  mind  and  heart  alike  aspired."  "  In 
1853,  at  the  age  of  thirty-two,  he  began  his  studies  at  Elder's 
Ridge  Academy,  preparatory  to  the  ministry."  *'  He  graduated  at 
Canonsburg,  and   entered   the  Seminary  in   Allegheny   in   1857." 


310  HISTORY    OF    THE 


"  In  1858,  he  was  commissioned  to  the  General  Assembly  by  the 
Presbytery  of  Saltsburg,  to  sit  in  New  Orleans  as  an  elder  frorr 
the  Rural  Valley  church."  He  was  retained  as  an  elder  of  this 
church  during  his  entire  preparation  for  the  ministry. 

Isaac  Rhea  was  an  elder  twenty-seven  years,  from  April  1, 
1851.  Surviving  colleagues  speak  of  his  kindness,  wisdom  and 
faithfulness  as  a  friend,  a  counselor  and  a  Christian  man.  Mrs, 
Rhea  was  a  daughter  of  Richard  E.  Caruthers.  Isaac  Rhea  died 
January  12,  1878.  Members  of  his  family  are  now  active  and 
useful  m  the  church. 

James  TvIcFarland,  Joseph  T.  Hosack  and  John  T.  Sloan  were 
ordained  by  Mr.  Morgan,  January  18,  1860.  James  McFarland 
served  twenty-five  years.  He  was  Sunday  School  superintendent, 
Sunday  School  teacher,  tioistee,  and  treasurer,  successively.  "  As 
a  member  of  session  his  counsels  showed  that  wisdom  which  is  the 
fruit  of  deliberation."  Joseph  T.  Hosack  was  an  elder  here  nine 
years.     He  was  dismissed  in  1869  to  West  Lebanon. 

A.  A.  Marshall  was  ordained  an  elder  in  Rural  Valley  church 
in  1870,  by  Rev.  Mr.  Morgan.  He  became  an  elder  in  Atwood 
church  at  its  organization  in  1874.  Thomas  D.  McColgin,  David 
Simpson  and  A.  J.  Mcintosh  were  ordained  November  31,  1876. 
The  three  last  named  with  Messrs.  Totten  and  Sloan,  constitute  the 
present  seseion. 

The  church  has  thus  had  sixteen  elders.  These  sixteen  repre- 
sent 325  years  ot  service.  The  longest  term  is  that  of  Samuel 
Fleming,  forty-seven  years.  Mr.  Totten  wishes  it  stated  that  of 
these  sixteen  elders  eight  were   Democrats  and  eight   Republicans. 

SKETCH    OF    CHURCH    LIFE. 

In  November,  1840,  Dr.  Painter,  pastor,  it  was  agreed  that 
"  an  examination  upon  the  Shorter  Catechism  be  held  in  four 
sections  of  the  congregation,  viz.,  at  the  church,  at  the  house 
of  Ebenezer  Smith  and  of  Samuel  Fleming  and  of  George 
Stewart "  on  certain  Saturday  afternoons.  This  represents  an 
instruction  of  the  youth  that  may  now  be  said  to  belong  to  the 
past. 

In  1852,  April  10,  under  the  ministry  of  Rev.  Mr.  Forbes,  the 
lollovs'ing  resolution  was  unanimously  adopted: 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  311 

"  That  the  session  of  this  church  consider  the  using  of  intoxicating 
liquors  as  a  beverage  or  signing  a  petition  for  tavern  license  as  liighly  incon- 
sistent with  Christian  character  and  a  censurable  offense  against  the  church 
of  Christ." 

Thirty-five  years  ago  this  session  took  the  position  of  prohibi- 
tion.    Its  objection  was  to  the  hqnor  business  itself. 

The  "  tokens  "  of  the  church  were  manufactured  by  Richard 
E.  Caruthers.  They  wxre  of  lead,  the  size  of  a  cent  piece,  with 
the  letters  R.  V.  stamped  thereon.  These  tokens  were  given  to 
the  people  at  the  Saturday  service.  They  were  taken  up  after  the 
people  were  seated  at  the  communion  table.  An  elder  passed 
along  on  either  side  of  the  table  and  the  tokens  were  dropped  into 
his  hand.  In  1850,  elder  Totten  purposely  failed  to  take  up  these 
tokens  at  communion.  The  people  were  surprised  and  many 
offered  them  after  the  service.  They  were  told  to  keep  them  as 
souvenirs  of  a  past  custom. 

In  1860,  tables  were  dispensed    wuth    upon   entering  the  new 
church.     In   1851,  Isaac   Rhea,  elected  an  elder,  refused  to  serve 
without  the  tables.      They   were   then   again  used   until  in   a  shor 
time   Mr.    Rhea    changed    his    views   of  the   matter,   and   himself 
moved  that  they  be  dispensed  with. 

Rev.  Mr.  Forbes  was  the  first  minister  in  the  history  of  this 
church  to  invite  members  of  other  denominations  to  the  com- 
munion. He  had  been  a  missionary.  He  said  you  couldn't  be  a 
missionary  without  losing  your  sectarianism. 

There  was  a  colonial  dismission  to  Atwood  in  1874,  when 
twenty-two  were  dismissed.  In  and  since  the  organization  there 
have  been:  members  received,  709;  infants  baptized,  686;  adults, 
64 ;  total  baptisms,  760 ;  marriages,  164.  The  present  membership 
is  300, 

SABBATH     SCHOOL. 

The  Sabbath  School  was  organized  in  1834.  An  aunt  of 
Richard  E.  Caruthers  writing  of  him  in  a  letter  in  1834,  says: 
*'  He  seems  to  be  much  engaged  in  religion.  He  has  got  up  a 
Sabbath  School;  has  thirty  or  forty  scholars  and  no  teachers  except 
out  of  his  own  family." 

The  Sabbath  School  was  begun  in  Rural  Village  V)y  Ebenezer 
Smith.  It  at  first  met  in  the  house  occupied  by  the  Misses  Jane 
and  Hettie  Reed.     At  a  later  date  it  was   held  in  the   house  now 


812  HISTORY    OF    THE 


occupied  by  Dr.  Pettigrew,  a  house  then  new  and  unfinished. 
"  When  winter  came  the  school  was  moved  into  Mr.  Stoop's 
kitchen  where  it  was  kept  warm.  This  was  its  first  winter.  There 
was  no  room  for  separate  classes;  all  were  seated  compactly  on 
boards  laid  on  trestles.  Mr.  Smith  and  Mr.  Archie  L.  Robinson 
superintended.  Mr.  Robinson  led  the  singing.  The  school  was 
taught  as  one  class.  In  May,  1838,  it  was  moved  into  the  new 
church  and  organized. 

A  perfect  list  of  superintendents  cannot  be  given.  Rev.  Mr. 
Kerr  was  at  the  head  of  the  school  during  his  pastorate.  He 
organized  it  into  a  Sabbath  School  Association.  It  had  been 
managed  by  the  session  previous  to  his  time.  The  Sabbath  School 
flourished  under  the  thorough  administration  of  Mr.  Kerr,  and  is 
now  successful.  Elder  John  T.  Sloan  is  the  present  superin- 
tendent. 

Earlier  superintendents  in  succession,  so  far  as  ascertained,  have 
been  Ebenezer  Smith,  A.  L.  Robinson,  Hamlet  Totten,  Adam 
McConnell,  James  McFarland,  George  Stewart,  James  E. 
Cnruther?,  James  McKelvey. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  318 


SALTSBURG. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


ORGANIZATION. 


In  1769  a  patent  for  a  large  tract  of  land  lying  between  Blade- 
legs  creek,  and  Kiskiminetas  and  Conemaugh  rivers  was  granted 
to  Hugh  and  Thomas  Wilson.  From  this  time  the  wave  of  emi- 
gration rolled  in  rapidly.  The  patentees  divided  their  lands  and 
sold  portions  to  actual  settlers.  In  the  early  part  of  the  present 
century,  VV^illiam  Johnston,  who  is  described  as  a  man  of"  remai'k- 
able  energy,  courage  and  nobilit}'  of  character,"  purchased  and 
occupied  a  large  tract  on  both  sides  of  the  Conemaugh  and  Kiski- 
minetas at  the  mouth  of  the  Loyalhanna.  Salt  which  had  been 
worth  five  dollars  a  bushel,  became  during  the  war  of  1812-15 
exceedingly  scarce  and  dear,  and  Mr.  Johnston,  with  his  character- 
istic enterprise,  determined  to  bore  for  salt  near  one  of  the  "  licks  " 
which  he  had  noticed.  If  he  failed  he  was  a  ruined  man.  But 
after  the  expenditure  of  more  than  three  thousand  dollars,  ten  days 
after  his  partner  had  abandoned  the  enterprise  in  despair,  and  at  a 
depth  of  between  three  and  four  hundred  feet,  the  rude  drill,  driven 
by  a  spring-pole,  "  struck  brine."  Immediate  promise  was  given 
that  the  unsurpassed  beauty  of  the  Kiskiminetas  valley  would  soon 
be  rivaled  by  its  population  and  wealth.  A  third  interest  in  the 
well  was  sold  for  $12,000.  New  wells  were  sunk.  Settlers  and 
capital  .from  the  east  flowed  in,  and  soon  the  valley  for  miles  was 
dotted  with  salt  works.  Mr.  Johnston  gave  to  his  sister  Mrs. 
Boggs,  that  part  of  the  land  which  originally  belonged  to  the  Wil- 
son patent.  There,  in  the  winter  of  1816-17,  Andrew  Bogo-s  her 
husband,  laid  out  the  town  of  Saltsburg.  Prior  to  this  the  locality 
was  known  as  the  Salt-works.  In  the  minutes  of  the  Presbytery 
of  Redstone,  in  session  at   Beulah,  April   16,   1817,   we  find  the 

40 

PREPARED  BY  REV.  S.  W.  MILLER,  D.  D. 


814  HISTORY    OF    THE 


record  of  an  "  application  for  preaching  at  the  Salt-works,"  and 
soon  after  this,  "  October  21,  1817,  the  Rev.  Porter,  second  Sab- 
bath of  November,  at  Saltsburg."  From  this  time  occasional  sup- 
plies vs^ere  sent  by  the  Presbytery  until  "April,  21,  1824,  when 
"  application  was  made  by  the  people  of  Saltsburg  to  be  organized 
into  a  congregation,  which  was  granted."  In  accordance  with  this 
action,  and  by  appointment  of  Presbytery,  Rev,  Thomas  Davis 
organized  the  Saltsburg  Presbyterian  church,  August  21,  1824. 
The  number  and  names  of  the  original  members  are  not  known, 
the  early  records  being  lost.  Five  years  later  the  number  of  com- 
municants was  about  forty. 

HOUSES    OF    WORSHIP. 

When  Mr.  Boggs  laid  out  and  sold  the  first  lots  in  the  village 
of  Saltsburg,  he  deeded  to  the  "  Saltsburg  congregation,"  one  lot 
at  the  northern  end  of  the  plot.  In  1819  a  lot  adjacent  to  the  one 
donated  was  purchased,  and  the  people,  although  not  yet  organized 
as  a  church,  proceeded  to  erect  a  house  of  worship.  This  edifice 
was  of  stone,  and  cost  when  finished  about  $600.  It  was  first 
occupied  for  public  worship  in  1820,  and  the  bare  walls  and  rafters 
resounded  to  the  praise  of  God  ascending  from  glad  and  grateful 
hearts.  The  preacher  on  this  occasion  was  the  Rev.  Joseph  W. 
Henderson,  the  pulpit  a  work-bench,  and  the  pews,  the  sleepers  on 
which  the  floor  was  not  yet  laid.  For  several  years,  little  more 
was  done  towards  completing  and  furnishing  the  house,  than  glaz- 
ing the  windows  and  laying  the  floor.  It  was  finally  completed 
and  furnished  with  pews  and  pulpit  in  1831,  and  a  few  days  later 
(April  1),  was  destroyed  by  fire. 

Soon  after,  the  second  house  of  worship,  a  substantial  brick 
structure,  sixty  by  seventy-five  (60  x  75)  feet  was  erected  at  a  cost 
of  about  five  thousand  (5,000)  dollars.  This  building  continued 
to  be  used  by  the  growing  congrega.ion  until  early  in  1873,  wheni 
upon  examination  by  the  architect  employed  for  the  purpose,  it  was 
pronounced  unsafe.  The  location  being  at  the  extreme  lower  end 
oi  the  village,  a  new  and  central  site,  at  the  corner  of  Salt  and 
Washington  streets,  was  selected,  and  two  lots,  making  a  plot  one 
hundred  and  eighty  (180)  feet  square  was  purchased  for  the  sum 
of  three  thousand  (3,000)  dollars.  April  1,  1874,  found  the  new 
church  edifice  under  roof,  and  $7,261.39   paid   on   the   work  done. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  315 

During  the  erection  of  this  building  the  congregation  worshipped 
in  the  main  hall  of  the  "  Memorial  Institute,"  the  property  of  the 
church,  and  a  history  of  which,  by  an  able  jDen,  will  be  f^jund  else- 
where. 

On  November  20,  1874,  the  present  structure  being  completed, 
at  an  expense  of  $27,765,  was  dedicated  with  appropriate  and 
impressive  services.  The  following  carefully  arranged  programme 
was  fully  carried  out,  viz: 

Opening  Sermon  by  the  pastor,  W.  W.  Woodend,     -  November  19,    7  P.  M. 

Dedication  Sermon  bj  Rev.  Dr.  Geo.  P.  Hays,    -     -  November  20,  11  A.  M. 

Sermon,  by  Rev.  Wm.  M.  Robinson, November  21,  11  A.  M. 

Sermon  to  Young  People,  by  Rev.  J.  ^V.  White,      -  November  21,    7  P.  M. 

Sermon  on  Missions,  by  Dr.  James  Allison,     -     -     -  November  22,  11  A.  M. 

Sermon  to  Youth,  by    Rev.  Dr.  T.  A.  McCurdy,     -  November  22,    7  P.  M. 

Sermon,  by   Rev.  Dr.  Alexander  Donaldson,     -     -  November  23,  11  A.  M. 

Sermon  to  Young  People,  by  Rev.  Geo.  W.  Chalfant,  November  24,  11  A.  M. 

Sermon,  by  Rev.  Samuel  H.  Thompson,      -     .     -     -  November  24,  11  P.  M. 

Sermon  on  Temperance,  by  Rev.  Dr.  E.  P.  Swift,     -  November  25,    7  P.  M. 

"  Thanksgiving," .     .  November  26. 

Up  to  this  time  there  was  paid  on  the  building  and  grounds, 
$20,836.  The  principal  part  of  the  remaining  indebtedness  was 
allowed  to  continue,  little  more  than  the  interest  being  paid,  until 
the  year  1882-3,  when  the  balance  of  $6,500  was  fullv  provided 
for  by  subscriptions,  to  be  paid  in  three  semi-annual  installments. 
It  should  be  added  here,  that  the  usual  effects  of  a  church  debt  had 
been  felt  In  all  these  years,  in  the  direction  of  the  benevolent  work 
of  the  church,  of  needless  postponement  of  needed  improvements 
and  the  provision  of  accommodations  for  the  congregation. 

This  edifice  is  Gothic  in  style  of  architecture,  and  one  of  the 
most  substantial  brick  and  stone  structures  in  this  part  of  the  State. 
The  walls  are  respectively  eighteen  and  twenty-two  inches  in 
thickness.  The  main  audience  room  is  eighty  feet  long,  and  forty- 
three  feet,  six  inches  v/ide,  and  thirty-three  feet  high,  inside 
measurement.  The  wing  is  forty-six  feet,  four  inches,  bv  twentv- 
eight  feet,  eight  inches,  and  is  built  with  two  stories.  It 
contains  a  lecture  room  below  and  session  and  infant  Sabbath 
School  rooms  above.  The  windows  are  modern  in  style  and  filled 
with  a  good  quality  of  stained  glass,  while  the  main  front  window 
is  large,  of  beautiful  design  and  yet  unpretentious.  The  spire  is 
justly  regarded  as  a  very  beautiful  one,  and  has  an  altitude  of  145 


316  HISTORY    OF    THE 


feet.  It,  with  the  entire  building,  is  covered  with  slate.  It  stands 
to-day,  to  all  passers  by,  as  a  just  testimonial  to  the  character  of  an 
enterprising  and  worthy  people. 

PASTORS    AND    STATED    SUPPLIES. 

In  October,  1824,  two  months  after  the  organization  was 
effected,  the  Rev.  Joseph  Harper,  a  member  of  the  Presbytery  of 
Richland,  was  appointed  stated  supply  by  the  Presbytery  of  Red- 
stone, half  of  his  time  to  be  devoted  to  this  congregation,  and  the 
remainder  to  that  of  Warren,  (now  Apollo),  until  the  next  meeting 
of  the  Presbytery.  On  the  3d  of  May,  1825,  he  was  installed  as 
pastor  for  half  time,  by  a  committee  of  the  Presbytery  consisting 
of  the  Rev.  Messrs.  John  Reed,  Jesse  Smith,  and  Thomas  Davis. 
Little  is  known  concerning  him.  He  is  said  to  have  been  an 
ardent  and  impulsive  man.  His  ministrations  were  evidently 
attended  by  tokens  of  the  divine  favor.  One  season  of  refreshing 
during  his  ministry  resulted  in  the  addition  to  the  membership  of 
the  two  churches  under  his  care  of  sixty-five  persons  upon  profes- 
sion of  their  faith.  The  pastoral  relation  existing  between  him 
and  this  church  was  dissolved  in  April,  1829.  Dr.  Woodend  in  his 
history  written  in  1870,  says:  "We  have  not  been  able  to  trace 
Mr.  Harper's  history  after  he  left  this  field.  He  spent  some  time 
missionating  in  Venango  county  and  died  about  twenty  years  since 
near  Beaver,  Pa.  The  membership  of  the  church  at  the  close  of 
Mr.  Harper's  pastorate  was  about  one  hundred. 

Mr.  Watson  Hughes^  who  succeeded  Mr.  Harper,  was  licensed 
to  preach  by  the  Presbytery  of  Hartford  in  October,  1829,  and 
began  preaching  here  soon  afterwards,  (November  1,  1829).  He 
was  ordained  and  installed  pastor  of  the  united  charge  of  Saltsburg 
and  Warren  by  the  Presbytery  of  Redstone,  October  26,  1830, 
during  the  sessions  of  the  same  meeting  at  which  steps  were  taken 
for  forming  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville.  He  continued  his  labors 
in  both  congregations  until  April  3,  1838,  when  he  was  released 
from  Warren  and  devoted  all  his  time  to  this  place.  His  activity 
and  usefulness  were  much  impaired  at  times  by  family  and  personal 
afflictions,  yet  it  was  not  till  April  9,  1845,  after  fifteen  and  a  half 
years  of  earnest  toil  and  care,  that  he  was  constrained  on  account 
of  his  health,  and  loss  of  his  voice,  to  seek  a  dissolution  of  the 
pastoral  relation.     At  the  close  of  his  pastorate  the  membership  of 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  317 

the  church  was  219,  a  net  increase  of  119.  The  largest  amount  of 
benevolent  contributions  in  any  one  year  was  that  of  the  last,  being 
$422,  and  the  highest  salary  which  he  received  during  all  those 
years  was  $475.  In  the  history  referred  to  above,  his  successor, 
Dr,  Woodend,  says  of  him,  "  Few  could  speak  more  affectionately 
than  he.  All  felt  while  drinking  in  his  words,  that  they  were 
the  sincere  utterances  of  an  honest  and  pious  heart.  It  does  not 
often  happen  that  a  people  so  long  retain  their  warm  attachment  to 
a  former  pastor,  or  that  a  successor  finds  in  his  predecessor  so  kind 
a  helper  and  so  faithful  a  friend.  I  would  be  doing  injustice  to  my 
own  feelings  not  to  express  my  high  appreciation  of  Mr.  Hughes 
and  my  entire  confidence  in  him  as  a  faithful  friend  and  devoted 
minister  of  the  gospel." 

The  "  History  of  the  pastoral  charges  in  the  Presbytery  of 
Kittanning,"  by  Alexander  Donaldson,  D.  D.,  contains  the  follow- 
ing reference  to  Mr.  Hughes:  "  He  continued  until  1845,  when, 
on  account  of  throat  disease,  he  resigned  his  charge,  and  soon  after 
moved  away,  chiefly  that  his  successor  might  have  a  fair  oppor- 
tunity to  gain  the  undivided  affections  of  his  people.  Afterwards 
he  was  pastor  for  awhile  at  West  Newton,  in  Redstone  Presby- 
tery, and  supplied  occasionally  or  statedly  at  various  other  places." 
He  finally  made  his  permanent  residence  at  Pittsburgh,  Pa.,  where 
he  died  very  suddenly,  March  26,  1870,  ripe  in  years,  in  dignity, 
and  in  meetness  for  heaven. 

W.  W.  Woodend,  D.  D.,  graduated  at  Jefferson  College  in  the 
class  of  1839.  He  was  private  tutor  in  the  family  of  Hon.  Henry 
St.  G.  Tucker,  of  Virginia,  one  year;  principal  of  the  County 
Academy  at  Greensburg,  Pa.,  for  four  years;  and  served  the 
church  of  Corinth,  in  the  Presbytery  of  Steubenville,  Ohio,  for 
one  year,  previous  to  his  settling  in  Saltsburg.  He  was  licensed  to 
preach  by  the  Presbytery  of  Redstone,  October  5,  1843,  having 
pursued  his  theological  course  privately  under  the  direction  of  Dr. 
J.  I.  Brownson,  of  Washington,  Pa. 

He  preached  his  first  sermon  in  Saltsburg  on  Sabbath,  April 
28,  1845.  From  this  date  he  served  the  church  as  stated  supply 
until  January  14,  1846,  when  he  was  installed  as  pastor.  This 
relation,  which  may  be  truly  designated  as  a  long,  happy  and  fruit- 
ful one  terminated  only  after  the  lapse  of  thirty-four  years.  This 
relation   was  modified  April   23,  1879,  at  the   mutual  request  of 


318  iriSTORV    OF    THE 


pastor  and  people,  by  the  Presbytery,  so  as  to  constitute  Dr.. 
Woodend,  pastor,  emeritus^  with  a  salary  of  $200  per  annum. 
Not  proving  satisfactory,  as  standing  in  the  way  of  securing  a  suc- 
cessor, this  relation  was  dissolved  at  the  November  meeting  of  the 
Presbytery.  In  his  quarter  centenary  discourse  already  referred 
to.  Dr.  Woodend  gives  a  brief  summary  of  his  ministerial  labors, 
which  clearly  indicates  the  character  of  this  faithful,  laborious  and 
successful  workman  in  the  Master's  vineyard.     This   is  as  follows: 

Sermons,  lectures,  and  public  addresses  delivered,  4,067;  pas- 
toral visits  paid,  3/376;  funerals  attended,  204;  marriage  ceremonies 
performed,  187;  communion  seasons  officiated  at,  198;  adults  bap- 
tized, 89;  infants  baptized,  506;  total  595;  admitted  on  examina- 
tion, 466;  admitted  on  certificate,  334;  total,  800;  ecclesiastical 
meetings,  conventions,  etc.,  attended,  177;  distance  traveled  (in 
miles),  31,918. 

In  addition  to  the  above,  he  served  seven  years  as  principal  of 
Saltsburg  Academy,  and  sixteen  years  as  Stated  Clerk  of  his 
Presbytery.  Though  ceasing  from  the  service  of  this  church  in 
1879,  he  could  not  cease  from  the  work  he  loved  so  well,  and  in 
which  he  had  engaged  so  long.  To  him,  inaction  was  impossible, 
nay  to  him,  inaction  would  have  been  misery.  On  the  prairies  of 
Kansas,  at  Highland,  and  among  the  mountains  of  his  native  State, 
at  Phillipsburg,  he  continued  the  labors  of  a  pastor,  until  increas- 
ing years  and  gathering  infirmities  compelled  him  to  cease  from 
the  full  service  of  the  pastorate.  Even  then  he  did  not  cease  the 
hallowed  work  of  preaching  the  gospel  which  he  loved,  but 
accepted  appointments  by  his  Presbytery,  and  carried  the  bread  of 
life  to  the  poor  in  the  weak  and  vacant  churches,  where  the  people 
hailed  his  coming  with  delight,  receiving  his  messages  as  from 
an  honored  servant  of  the  Lord. 

He  died  at  his  residence  in  Indiana,  Pa.,  November  21,  1886, 
and  after  appropriate,  solemn  and  tearful  services  in  the  church  at 
Saltsburg,  of  which  he  was  so  long  the  faithful  and  beloved  pastor, 
his  remains  were  interred  in  Edgewood  cemetery,  Saltsburg. 

Samuel  W.  Miller,  D.  D.,  the  present  pastor,  entered  upon  the 
full  duties  of  the  pastorate  in  this  church.  May  16,  1880,  but  was 
not  formally  installed  until  a  year  later. 

Hickory,  Washington  county.  Pa.,  was  the  place  of  his  nativity. 
He  graduated  at  Jefferson  College  in  the  class  of  1860,  and   at  the 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING. 


B19 


Western  Theological  Seminary  in  that  of  1864.  He  was  licensed 
CO  preach  in  April  of  the  same  year;  pastor  of  the  Second  Presby- 
terian church,  of  Wooster,  Ohio,  six  years;  of  the  First  Presby- 
terian church,  of  Mansfield,  Ohio,  six  years;  and  it  is  with  grati- 
tude that  he  here  records  that  without  the  interval  of  a  single  Sab- 
bath since  April,  1865,  he  has  been  enabled,  in  the  providence  of 
God  to  continue  in  the  iminterrupted  office  and  work  of  the  pastor- 
ate until  the  present  writing,  March  12,  1888.  The  minutes  of  the 
General  Assembly  of  the  Presbyterian  church  for  these  twenty- 
two  years  sufficiently  recoi'd  the  results  of  his  distinctively  pastoral 
work, 

RULING    ELDERS. 


NAME. 

Ordained  or  Installed. 

Dismissed  or 
Ceased  to  Act. 

Died. 

John  Robinson..,. 

"John  McKee 

Wm.  H.  Wray 

Andrew  Love. 

April             1,  1824. 

April             1,  1824. 

April             1,  1824. 

1825. 

1834. 

April  25,  1856. 
August       18,  1849- 

April     24,  1854. 

January  1,  1869. 
March         16,  1853. 

Alexander  White. 

October      21,  1842. 

Wm.  Mcllwain  .. 

1840. 

March         11,  1884. 

1840. 

Dismissed. 

James  Rhea 

Wm.  Moore 

July             22,  1849. 
July             22,  1849. 
May              23,  1852. 
December     3,  1858. 
December     3,  1858. 
December     3,  1858. 
September    8,  1867. 
September    8,  1867. 
September    8,  1867, 
September    8,  1867. 
June              2,  1878. 
June              2,  1878. 
June              5,  1887. 
June              5,  1887. 

November  29,  1867. 

Jas.  B.  Robinson.. 

James  Rosters 

Isaiah  White 

November    2,  1877. 

March   18,  1880. 

May             10,  1864. 

Simon  B.  Mercer. 

James  H.  Ewing.. 
Johnston  Glass.... 
Daniel  Rhea. 

April           22,  1886. 

Valentine  Blank... 

Alex.  W.  Beatty.. 
W.G.McConnell. 

John  Weister 

SABBATH    SCHOOL. 

From  Dr.  Woodend's  "  Quarter  Centennial  "  discourse  we 
again  quote:  "  Perhaps  the  first  distinct  movement  of  a  religious 
kind  looking  towards  organization  within  our  bounds  was  the 
opening  in  the  early  part  of  the  present  century  of  a  little  Sab- 
bath School  and  prayer-meeting  united,  in  the  Robinson  and  Wil- 
son neighborhood.  This,  on  days  when  there  was  no  public 
worship  at  Ebenezer,  was  held  in   their  private  dwellings.     The 


'S20  HISTORY    OF    THE 


families  came  together  to  one  place  on  Sabbath  mornings,  and 
spent  the  day  in  giving  and  receiving  instructions  from  the 
Scriptures,  and  oflfering  their  prayers  and  praises  before  the  mercy 
seat.  The  school  was  usually  taught  by  Messrs.  Robert  and  John 
Robinson,  and  is  believed  to  have  been  kept  up  until  finally  trans- 
ferred, vv^hen  our  first  church  edifice  was  erected,  to  a  little  log 
school  house  (still  standing  at  the  end  of  the  railroad  bridge). 
This  little  Sabbath  School  and  prayer-meeting  was  the  germ  out 
of  which  our  present  Sabbath  Schools  have  grown,  and  was 
probably  one  of  the  earliest  movements  of  the  sort  in  this  region 
of  Western  Pennsylvania."  Although  it  was  certain  that  a  Sabbath 
School  was  maintined  in  connection  with  this  church  from  the 
time  of  its  organization,  no  records  for  the  first  forty-eight  years 
being  found,  dates  cannot  be  given.  It  is  believed  that  Robert  or 
John  Robinson  continued  to  superintend  the  Sabbath  School  for 
some  time  after  its  transfer  from  tlie  country.  Several  years  after 
the  organization  of  the  church,  John  M.  Robinson,  son  of  John 
Robinson,  became  the  superintendent,  and  so  far  as  can  be  learned 
continued  to  hold  the  office  for  perhaps  a  score  of  years.  He  was 
succeeded  by  James  Moore,  and  later  by  William  Moore.  These 
brothers  (the  latter  still  livmg)  filled  the  position  for  the  next  ten 
or  fifteen  years,  except  one  or  perhaps  two  years,  during  which  it 
was  filled  by  Prof.  S.  B.  Mercer.  March  1,  1872,  another  brother. 
Chambers  S.  Moore,  was  elected  superintendent  and  continued  in 
thai  office  four  years,  and  was  succeeded  as  follows:  David  S. 
Robinson,  two  years  from  April  1,  1876,  until  April  1,  1878. 
John  S.  Smith,  one  year,  from  April  1,  1878,  until  April  1, 
1879;  John  W.  Robinson  was  chosen  superintendent  April  1, 
1879,  and  has  been  re-elected  each  year  since. 

The  first  election  of  Sabbath  School  officers  by  the  session  of 
the  church  was  in  1872,  and  inasmuch  as  the  Sabbath  School 
records  were  not  preserved,  great  uncertainty  attaches  to  order  of 
incumbency,  and  to  dates  previous  to  that  time. 

ROLL    OF     MINISTERS    OF    THE     GOSPEL     FORMERLY     M^EMBERS    OF 
THE    SALTSBURG    CHURCH. 

William  M.  Robinson,  John  Allen  Brown,  Geo.  W.  Chalfant, 
Alexander  S.  Foster,  James  E.  Lapsley,  Matthias  M.  Shirley, 
John  W.  White,  Henry  H.    White,    Moorhead    Edgar,  John  W. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITXANNING.  3^1 


Van  Eman,  Walter  L.  Lyons,  A,  J.  Bolar,  Johnstofi  D./Vy^l^it^e, 
Albert  H.  Brown,  J.  C  R.  Evving,  John  ,  C  Gilkersop,,^  a,i;i,<|i, 
Andrew  J.  Gregg,  17.  Mr.  Arthur  H.  Ewing,  is  in  ^attendaiiiqe,  p^\^ 
the  W.  T.  Seminary,  with  a  view  to  entering  the  work^  of  th^, 
gospel  ministry.  ,, 

'      '.  ■      ,   :  .    ;/!rM,   n,..;! 
SEASONS     OF      SPECIAL     INTEREST     AND     LARGE     INGATHERINGS. 

••   -,      •i-Mn.j,.;: 

In  addition  to  that  during  the  pastorate  of  Mr.  Harper,  :and 
already  noticed,  two  stand  out  with  great  prominence;^. aindi^ane; 
esteemed  worthy  of  special  mention.  .    .,'■ 

In  the  summer  of  1878,  there  seemed  to  be  much  in  the  state  of i 
religion  in  the  church  to  discourage,  and  little  to  cheer  the  hearts  of 
God's  people.  Many  professors  seemed  to  have  lost  their  first  love, 
and  some  to  have  fallen  asleep;  mournful  inconsistencies  and 
scandalous  sins,  in  regard  to  which  attendant  discipline  had  seemed 
to  fail,  threatened  to  rend  the  church.  The  word  preached  and 
taught  appeared  to  produce  but  slight  impression,  and  few  wereS 
found  inquiring  the  way  to  Zion.  At  the  June  communion  only 
two,  at  the  September  communion  only  one,  and  at  the  December 
communion  none,  were  added  on  examination.  About  the  close  of 
the  year  1875,  many  Christians  became  sensible  that  something  was 
wrong,  and  through  humiliation,  confession  and  prayer,  they 
sought  earnestly  a  revival  of  religion.  The  Week  of  Prayer  was 
well  observed,  but  although  the  services  were  continued  from  day 
to  day  for  more  than  two  weeks,  the  interest  slackened,  the  attend- 
ance diminished  and  the  meetings  were  closed  amidst  discourage- 
ment. Just  then,  by  the  liberality  of  the  people,  the  pastor  was 
enabled  to  attend  the  Christian  convention  at  Philadelphia,  held 
during  the  labors  of  Messrs.  Moody  and  Sankey  in  that  city.  His 
report,  on  his  return,  seemed  to  awaken  new  interest,  and  meetings 
were  resumed  and  continued  for  two  months,  and  as  a  result  God's 
people  were  greatly  quickened  and  one  hundred  and  five  added  to 
the  church  on  examination. 

The  other  marked  season  of  interest  was  enjoyed  during  the 
winter  of  1884-5.  In  the  closing  days  of  1884,  the  pastor  and 
session  found  that  certain  professing  Christians  were  rearng  again 
the  family  altars  which  had  fallen  into  decay,  and  that  certain 
parents  were  evincing  an  unusual  concern  for  the  salvation  of  their 
children;  they  also  observed  a  deeper  interest  and   spirit  of  inquiry 


322  HISTORY    OF    THE 


on  the  part  of  n  on -professors  isolated  from  each  other.  At  the 
close  of  the  very  interesting  services  of  the  Week  of  Prayer,  the 
meetings  were  continued,  but  v^^ithout  any  visible  results  until  the 
third  week,  when,  in  response  to  a  personal  and  individual  request, 
the  session  made  an  appointment  to  meet  inquirers.  When  the 
hour  arrived  the  session  was  no  less  surprised  than  the  different 
inquirers  present,  when  instead  of  one,  they  found  twenty-two 
gathered  for  spiritual  counsel,  and  indeed  all  desiring  to  make  a 
profession  of  their  faith  in  Christ! 

Preaching  services  were  held  once  and  twice  a  day  for  three 
months,  and  as  a  result  the  church  was  much  revived  and  ninety- 
nine  received  into  membership  in  the  church  on  examination  and 
profession  of  their  faith. 

The  services  differed  little  from  the  ordinary  Sabbath  services. 
The  preaching,  or  rather  talking,  was  done  entirely  by  the  pastor, 
and  the  people  held  up  his  hands  by  prayer  and  work.  One  special 
feature  of  the  work  was  the  judicious  distribution  of  tracts.  Never 
did  we  feel  or  see  more  clearly  the  fact  that  success  in  such  work 
depends  upon  the  presence  and  power  of  the  Holy  Spirit,  and  not 
on  eloquent  preaching  or  exciting  services. 

Go  on,  people  of  God,  go  on  praying,  preaching,  teaching, 
hoping,  trusting  only  in  the  Lord,  for  the  Lord  will  yet  give  years 
of  grace.  He  will  bless  his  people.  He  will  bless  his  people  with 
peace,  and  greatly  multiply  the  number  of  those  who  will  turn 
unto  Him  and  be  saved.     Hosanna!     Amen  and  amen» 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  323 


SLATE  LICK. 


BY    REV.    D.    H.    SLOAN. 


ORGANIZATION    AND    EARLY    HISTORY. 

The  first  church  established  in  this  neighborhood,  and,  it  is 
believed,  the  first  in  Armstrong  county,  was  the  Presbyterian 
Church  of  Slate  Lick.  The  precise  date  of  its  organization  can- 
not now  be  ascertained.  In  fact,  the  probability  is  that  it  never  was 
formally  organized  after  the  custom  of  more  recent  times.  But  it 
was  a  preaching  point  and  had  recognition  as  a  congregation  before 
the  beginning  of  the  present  century,  probably  as  early  as  1798. 
The  minutes  of  the  Presbyter}^  of  Redstone  show  that  on  October 
15,  1799,  the  congregation  of  "  Union  and  Fairfield  in  Allegheny 
county  "  asked  for  supplies,  and  at  the  same  meeting  of  the  Presby- 
tery presented  a  call  to  Mr.  Andrew  Gwin,  a  licentiate  of  the 
Presbytery,  which  call  he  returned  to  the  Presbytery,  December 
25,  of  the  same  year,  in  oi-der  to  accept  another.  Slate  Lick  was  at 
that  time  called  Fairfield,  and  this  name  continues  until  the  time  of 
the  transfer  of  the  church  to  the  Presbytery  of  Erie  at  its  organiza- 
tion by  the  Synod  of  Virginia,  October  2,  1801.  It  is  further  to 
be  noted  that  this  church  was  then  in  Allegheny  county,  as  the 
county  of  Armstrong  was  not  organized  until  March  12,  1800.  It 
thus  appears  that  this  congregation  was  recognized  as  such  at  least 
as  early  as  October  15,  1799.  In  the  minutes  of  Redstone  for 
April  9,  1800,  it  is  said  that  supplies  were  asked  by  "  Union  and 
Fairfield  in  Bufialoe  township,"  and  on  October  21,  1800,  a  similar 
request    is    recorded    from    "  Union    and    Fairfield  in    Armstrong 


^^^  hist6ry''6f' TrtE 


county."  It  is  to  be  regretted  that  the  data  for  making  up  a  his- 
tory of  the  early  years  of  this  church  are  so  few.  In  fact  no  church 
records  for  nearly  the  first  forty  years  of  its  existence,  except  in 
fragmentary  pipers,  are  now  known  to  be  extant. 

The  call  of  this  church  to  Rev.  John  Boyd,  its  first  pastor,  has 
been  preserved.  The  names  appended  to  it  may  stand  as  a  partial 
index  to  the  original  roll  of  members.  The  call  provides  that  half 
the  amount  promised  shoukl'bfe  ^+l''A^fl*^,"  the  other  half  in  pro- 
duce, "  merchantable  wheat  at  five  shillings  per  bushel,  rye  and 
corn  at  three  shillings  per  bushel."  No  fixed  amount  of  salary  is 
mentioned.  -  ,    ;  i      .•  i;-.    v;: 

The  subscribed  names  with  the  pledges  made  were  the  follow- 
ing: "Adam  Maxwell,  $2,  3  b'usTiels  of  wheat;  William  Barnett, 
50  cents,  1 1/^  bushels  of  wheat:  Joseph  Cogley,  $1;  William 
McNinch,  $1;  Jamei^  Green^  $1,2  busViel^  of  \vh6a{';'James  Travis, 
67  cents;  John  Jack,  $1;  Thomas  Jack>  50  cenjts,  1^,  t»i>sl^els  of 
wheat;  George  Ross,  $8;  Charles  Boner,  $1;  William  Fark, ; — --.•; 
George  Byers,  $1.88,  2  bushels  of  wheat;  Isabella  HiU,  $1;  Jean 
Kiskaden,  50  cents;  David  Reed,  Ij^  bushels  of  wheat;  Thomas 
Cumberland,  50  cents,  J/^  bushel  wheat." 

The  aggregate  is  sixteen  names,  fifteen  dollars,  and  eleven  and 
nve-.sixths  bushels  of  wheat.  Surely  the  love  of  gain  was  not  the 
chief  motive  in  impelling  that  pastor  to  enter  upon  the  work  of  the 
holy  ministry! 

'  The  call  to  the  second  pastor  in  1814  is  for  the  sum  of  $150  for 
l"ialf  time,  "  the  one-half  to  be  paid  in  grain,  wheat  at  75  cents,  corn 
and  rye  at  50  cents  per  bushel."  This  call  is  signed  by  James  Hill, 
Adam  A'Jaxwell,  James  Matthas,  Jr.,  Jacob  Young,  Sr.,  Jacob 
Young,  Jr.,  Patrick  Callon,  John  Boney,  David  Feales,  Thomas 
Laskaden,  George  McCaine,  John  Ralston,  David  Ralston,  James 
Clark,  Tames  Boles,  William  Morrison,  Robert  Morrison. 


O! 


HOUSES    OF    WORSHIP. 


l5  The'pai*cel  of  ground  belonging  to  this  church,  including  the 
%ufying  ground,  consists  of  two  acres  and  forty-eight  perches,  the 
tit'les  being  free  of  all  restrictions  and  limitations. 
biii  Pirst  Church — The  first  house  of  worship,  the  exact  date  of 
whose  erection  has  not  been  ascertained,  was  of  logs  brought  upon 
the  groimd  by  the  members  of  the   congregation  and  hewn  by  Mr. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING. 


^2*5 


<jeorge  Bell.  This  church  stood  on  ground  now  included  in  the 
grave  yard,  and  was  longest  from  north  to  south.  The  door  was 
in  the  north  end,  and  an  aisle  ran  through  from  the  door  to  the 
opposite  wall.  The  pulpit  was  located  in  the  west  end.  This 
church  was  covered  with  shingles,  which  at  that  time  were  seldom 
used,  "  clap-boards "  being  usually  employed  for  roofing.  The 
floor  was  of  loose  boards,  and  for  some  years  there  were  neither 
pews  nor  stoves.  At  length  seats  were  provided,  and  a  stove  in 
which  wood  was  burned,  known  as  a  "  ten-plate  "  stove  was  used, 
and  thus  the  practice  of  piety  was  relieved  of  some  needless  fea- 
tures of  self-denial.  No  dedicatory  services  of  this  rude  sanctuary 
are  recorded,  but  doubtless  the  hardy  people  of  that  time  entered 
and  occupied  it  with  joy.  This  church  was  not  large,  and  on  com- 
munion occasions  services  were  conducted  at  "  the  Tent."  This 
was  a  simple  shed  open  at  one  side,  and  with  a  board  or  desk  for 
the  minister's  use,  while  the  communicants  sat  at  a  table  stretching 
from  the  tent  into  the  grove. 

Second  Church — In  the  year  1830  brick  was  burned  near  the 
run  below  the  church  lot  for  a  new  edifice,  which  was  erected  the 
following  year.  The  building  committee  was  James  Hill,  John 
Rea  and  James  Smith.  This  church  was  a  plain  edifice,  about  40 
by  50  feet,  and  fronted  toward  the  west,  where  was  the  principal 
door.  It  had  also  a  door  to  the  north  and  another  to  the  south. 
The  ceiling  was  supported  in  the  middle  by  a  number  of  posts — 
the  inanimate  "  pillars  of  the  church."  The  pulpit  was  at  the  east 
side.  It  was  very  high,  being  reached  by  a  flight  of  steps  with 
railing,  the  front  of  it  being  of  panel  work  so  curved  that  the  ends 
attached  to  the  wall.  At  the  first  communion  service  held  in  this 
church  a  memorable  incident  occurred.  Owing  to  the  crowded 
condition  of  the  house  and  to  some  defects  in  the  supports  under- 
neath, the  floor  suddenly  gave  away,  cracking  the  ceiling  and  to 
some  extent  the  walls.  A  fearful  panic  ensued.  The  people  made 
a  rush  for  the  doors.  Some  sprang  through  the  windows,  and  the 
gla-s  flashing  in  the  sunshine  seemed  like  lightning,  suggesting  to 
some  that  the  world's  final  day  had  come.  Some  persons  were 
thrown  down  and  trodden  on  in  the  mad  rush  for  the  doors,  and 
one,  Mrs.  Ann  Ralston,  was  seriously  injured.  It  is  said  that  the 
pastor,  Mr.  Redick,  stood  at  the  communion  table,  helpless  to  pre- 
vent the    panic,  but   himself  comparatively  unmoved.       After  the 


326  HISTORY    OF    TilE 


commotion  had  subsided,  tlie  service  was  concluded  in  the  grove 
then  existing  near  by.  The  building  was  repaired  and  re-occupied. 
The  confidence  of  the  congregation  in  the  security  of  this  building 
was  never  fully  restored,  and  so  after  twelve  years  of  occupancy  it 
was  abandoned. 

Third  Church — In  the  year  1843,  upon  the  foundation  of  the 
church  just  described,  was  erected  a  frame  building,  plain  but  con- 
sidered in  very  good  taste  at  the  time.  The  building  committee 
was  George  F.  Keener,  George  B.  vSloan  and  James  Sloan,  and  the 
contractor  was  Andrew  Easly.  The  building  fronted  toward  the 
south,  and  in  that  end  were  two  doors,  in  two  parts  each  and  open- 
ing directly  into  the  building.  The  pulpit  was  at  the  opposite  end. 
When  at  length,  after  more  than  twenty-five  years  of  occupanc}',  it 
was  offered  at  public  sale,  it  was  purchased  by  George  B.  Sloan, 
who,  chiefly  from  its  materials,  erected  a  house  used  for  some  years 
by  the  Slate  Lick  Classical  Institute,  being  that  now  occupied  by 
Mrs.  David  Robinson. 

Fourth  Church — This  frame  church  having  gotten  in  very 
urgent  need  of  repairs,  the  question  of  a  new  church  began  to  be 
discussed,  and  at  a  meeting  in  October,  1866,  a  subscription  was 
started.  In  April,  1867,  the  building  of  a  church  was  let  to  A.  J. 
Elliott,  of  Kittanning,  for  $7,250.  Owing  to  failure  in  burning  a 
kiln  of  brick,  and  for  other  reasons,  this  contract  was  abandoned. 
After  some  time  the  enterprise  was  again  taken  up  with  John  Boyd, 
John  Graham  and  David  Robinson  as  a  building  committee.  The 
church  is  of  brick,  65  by  44  feet,  fronting  toward  the  east  and  with 
lecture  room  under  the  auditorium  at  the  west  end,  the  whole  cost- 
ing about  $7,600.  The  lecture  room  was  ready  for  occupancy  by- 
July  31,  1870,  at  which  time  the  first  service  was  held  in  it,  the 
present  writer  preaching  the  sermon. 

The  audience  room  was  completed  in  1871,  and  on  the  24th  day 
of  January,  1872,  it  was  dedicated.  The  service  was  the  first  of  the 
kind  ever  held  in  the  congregation,  and  the  occasion  was  one  of 
great  interest.  The  dedicatory  sermon  was  preached  by  Rev.  D. 
Hall,  D.  D.,  and  the  prayer  was  ofTered  by  Rev.  W.  F.  Kean,  a 
former  pastor.  With  gladness  and  enthusiasm  the  people  b-  gan  the 
occupancy  of  their  new  and  attractive  sanctnary.  But  in  the  pro- 
vidence of  God  a  terrible  disaster  was  destined  to  fall  upon  it.  On 
the  evening  of  Thursday,  April    29,  1875,  a  hurricane  passed  over 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  327 

the  neighborhood,  smiting  in  its  course  the  church  and  making  a 
complete  wreck  of  the  western  end  of  the  building.  About  half  of 
the  roof  was  torn  off,  part  of  it  being  carried  to  a  great  distance,  and 
almost  the  entire  end  was  thrown  down,  carrying  the  floor  of  the 
auditorium  into  the  lecture  room,  which  was  filled  with  the  wreck. 
Had  it  been  an  hour  later  the  weekly  prayer  meeting  would  have 
been  in  session,  and  much  loss  of  life  would  have  been  inevitable. 
The  news  soon  spread,  and  sadness  and  gloom  filled  the  hearts  of 
the  people.  But  only  one  course  was  open.  The  ruined  walls  must 
be  restored.  A  building  committee  was  appointed  at  once,  consist- 
ing of  Samuel  Sloan,  John  Graham  and  William  Rea,  and  the 
necessary  repairs  were  made,  at  a  cost  of  about  $1,500.  On  the 
23d  day  of  August,  the  church  was  re-dedicated.  Rev.  J.  J. 
Francis  preaching  the  sermon,  and  Rev.  J.  S.  Boyd  offering  the 
prayer.  During  the  year  1887,  the  building  was  remodeled  and 
repaired,  the  whole  cost  being  about  $900. 

PASTORS. 

This  church  has  had  in  all  eight  pastors  during  its  eighty-eight 
years  of  existence,  an  average  of  eleven  years  to  each.  The  first 
of  these  was — 

I.  Rev.  John  Boyd — He  was  the  son  of  John  and  Mary 
(Fulton)  Boyd,  and  was  born  in  Ireland  in  1768.  His  parents  with 
their  children  came  to  this  country  in  1772,  settling  in  the  bounds 
of  Salem  congregation  in  Westmoreland  county,  in  which  his 
father  became  a  ruling  elder.  Three  others  of  his  sons  became 
ministers,  Abraham,  Benjamin  and  James.  John  pursued  his 
studies  under  Rev.  John  McPherrin,  his  pastor.  On  the  23d  day 
of  April,  1801,  he  was  licensed  by  the  Presbytery  of  Redstone  to 
preach  the  gospel.  October  21st  of  the  same  year  he  accepted  calls 
from  this  church  and  Union,  and  in  the  last  named  church,  June 
16,  1802,  by  the  Presbytery  of  Erie,  at  its  second  meeting,  he  was 
ordained  and  installed  over  his  charge.  In  the  services.  Rev.  Wm. 
Wick  preached  the  sermon,  and  Rev.  Samuel  Tait  gave  the  charges 
to  pastor  and  people.  He  continued  until  April  17,  1810,  nearly 
eight  years,  when,  at  his  own  request,  he  was  released.  After  this 
he  was  pastor  at  Red  Oak  and  Strait  Creek  in  Ohio,  Presbytery  of 
Chilicothe,  and  again   at  Bethel,  Presbytery  of  Oxford.       He  died 


'S%8  HISTORY    OF    THE 


near  Hamilton,  O.,  of  bilious  fever,  August  20,  1816,  in  the  forty- 
eighth  year  of  his  age.  At  this  distance  of  time  very  few  reminis- 
cences of  his  ministry  here  can  be  given.  He  was  a  plain  man, 
and  a  faithful  preacher  of  a  plain  ^ospel.  His  people  here,  it  is 
said,  were  reluctant  to  part  with  him.  He  has  also  been  described 
as  fearless  in  his  advocacy  of  the  right,  his  opposition  to  Sabbath 
mail  service  in  a  subsequent  charge,  stirring  up  such  feeling  toward 
him  on  the  part  of  some  that  he  felt  constrained  to  leave.  It  is  on 
record  that  just  before  his  death  he  had  a  "  transporting  view  of 
the  excellence  of  the  gospel,"  and,  rising  up  on  his  bed,  said  to  those 
gathered  into  his  chamber,  "  I  have  been  in  congregations  where  I 
was  afraid  to  preach  Christ,  but  if  all  the  world  were  here  1  would 
speak  to  them  of  the  preciousness  of  the  gospel,  and  his  ability  and 
willingness  to  save  all  who  come  to  him."  The  work  he  did  and 
the  good  he  accomplished  here,  only  the  great  day  of  accounts  can 
now  reveal. 

For  a  time  between  the  close  of  the  first  and  the  beginning  of 
the  second  pastorate,  this  church  and  that  of  Union  were  supplied 
by  Rev.  Robert  Lee,  one  of  the  original  members  of  the  Presby- 
tery of  Erie.  He  was  born  in  Donegal,  Ireland,  1771,  studied 
theology  under  Dr.  McMillan,  and  was  ordained,  June  26,  1801. 
Of  his  work  here  no  specific  record  remains.  A  somewhat  fuller 
notice  of  him  may  be  found  in  connection  with  the  history  of  Union 
Church. 

2.  Rev.  yohn  Redick — We  come  now  to  the  second,  and  by 
far  the  longest  pastorate  in  the  history  of  this  church,  that  of  Rev. 
John  Redick,  for  a  long  time  affectionately  referred  to  as  "  Father 
Redick,"  who  for  thirty-four  years  was  a  faithful  under-shepherd 
to  this  flock,  and  broke  to  the  people  here  and  at  Union  the  bread 
of  life.  This  was  his  first  and  only  charge,  pastor  and  people  being 
so  joined  together  that  only  death  or  its  felt  approach  could  put 
them  asunder.  Truly,  in  view  of  his  life  and  ministry  and  the  im- 
press left  by  him  on  this  community  it  may  well  be  said  that  while 
he  "rests  from  his  labors,"  his  "  works  do  follow  him."  Mr.  Redick 
was  born  in  Path  Valley,  in  the  eastern  part  of  this  State.  He 
afterwards  resided  in  Westmoreland  county,  near  Hannahstown, 
where,  at  the  time  of  the  burning  of  that  town  by  the  Indians,  his 
father  was  shot  and  severely  wounded  in  the  arm.  His  father's 
name  was  John,  and    his  mother's    Elizabeth  Gorrell.       While  he 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  829 

was  yet  young  the  family  settled  in  the  north  eastern  part  of  But- 
ler county,  near  the  Allegheny  river,  where  in  labor  upon  the  farm 
his  early  years  were  spent.  Being  grown  to  young  manhood,  while 
crossing  the  river  in  a  canoe  with  some  companions,  he  was  acci- 
dentally shot  in  the  leg.  The  partial  disability  thus  occasioned,  it 
is  thought,  turned  his  mind  toward  study  and  eventually  put  him 
into  the  ministry.  He  began  to  study  under  Rev.  Robert  Johnston, 
then  pastor  of  Scruhgrass  Church,  going  afterwards  to  Greersburg, 
now  Darlington,  Beaver  county.  His  theological  studies  were 
pursued  under  the  direction  of  Mr.  Johnston.  He  was  licensed  to 
preach  by  the  Presbytery  of  Erie  at  Meadville,  October  20,  1813. 
Having  accepted  calls  from  this  church  and  Union,  he  was  ordained 
by  the  same  Presbytery  and  installed  in  his  charge,  September  28, 
1814.  The  services  were  at  this  place.  Hi*  old  preceptor.  Rev. 
Robert  Johnston,  preached  the  sermon,  and  Rev.  John  ^McPherrin 
delivered  the  charges  to  pastor  and  people.  And  thus  began  a 
laborious,  faithful,  honored  and  successful  ministry  of  a  third  of  a 
century.  Dr.  Eaton  in  his  "  History  of  the  Presbytery  of  Erie," 
uses  this  language:  "  Mr.  Redick  was  a  plain,  practical  preacher, 
and  a  pious,  godly  man.  His  great  aim  was  to  do  the  Master's  will 
and  to  win  souls  to  Christ.  Through  his  instrumentality,  the 
churches  of  his  charge  were  greatly  strengthened  and  built  up.  He 
spent  his  entire  pastoral  life  in  their  service,  and  was  entirely 
devoted  to  their  welfare.  His  memory  will  long  be  fragrant  in 
their  midst."  Mr.  Redick  was  united  in  marriage  to  Elizabeth 
Coulter,  a  sister  of  Rev.  John  Coulter,  so  long  and  so  well  known 
throughout  this  region,  Tltis  union  was  eminently  a  happj'  one. 
I'he  partner  thus  secured  was  in  the  fullest  sense  of  the  term  a 
"  helpmeet  "  to  him.  She  shared  cheerfully  all  the  hardships  of 
his  lot,  her  skill  and  economy  standing  to  him  in  good  degree 
instead  of  ample  salary.  They  had  nine  children,  five  sons  and  four 
daughters. 

Mr.  Redick's  pastorate  of  nearly  thirty- four  years  was  marked 
by  earnest,  self-denying  laoor  for  the  Master.  He  was  a  man  of 
decided  chai'acter,  and  did  not  fail  to  impress  himself  on  his  congre- 
gation and  the  community  generally.  As  indicating  his  decision  it 
may  be  related  that  while  yet  a  licentiate  he  preached  at  Broken- 
straw,  O.,  where  the  people  decided  to  call  him,  and  he  was  inclined 
to  go.  But  action  being  delayed,  and  he  supposing  the  purpose  had 

42 


880  HISTORY    OF    THE 


been  abandoned,  received  ami  accepted  calls  from  Slate  Lick  and 
Union.  Then  At  length  came  a  call  from  the  other  place 
offering  him  $100  more  than  he  was  to  reciive  here,  a  large  sum 
in  those  days.  But  regarding  his  ^ettlement  here  as  providential, 
he  would  not  reverse  his  decision,  saying  he  "  could  not  be  bribed 
with  mountains  of  gold."  But  with  all  his  firmness,  and  though 
with  heavy  eyebrows  overhanging  an  earnest  eye,  he  may  have 
seemed  somewhat  "  severe  to  view,"  he  yet  had  a  tender  heart, 
and  sometimes  his  pleadings  in  the  gospel  were  emphasized  by 
tears  coursing  down  his  cheeks. 

In  the  fall  of  1848,  owing  to  failing  health,  he  laid  down,  much 
to  the  regret  of  his  people,  the  work  in  which  he  had  been  so  long 
engaged.  He  preached  a  tender  farewell  sermon  from  the  text, 
"  Finally,  brethren,  farewell.  Be  perfect,  be  of  good  comfort,  be 
of  one  mind,  live  in  peace,  and  the  God  of  love  and  peace  shall  be 
with  you."  Shortly  afterwards  he  had  a  paralytic  stroke,  from 
which  he  partially  recovered,  so  as  to  be  able  to  attend  church, 
where  he  was  present  the  last  Sabbath  of  his  life.  Being  again 
stricken  he  lingered  for  a  few  days  speecliless  and  onlv  partially 
conscious.  But  before  his  departure  his  tongue  was  a  little  loosed, 
and  his  last  articulate  speech  was  a  word  of  endearment  to  the 
loved  and  faithful  wife  of  his  youth  and  the  whole  period  of  his 
ministry.  He  went  to  iiis  reward  July  11,  1850,  and  in  the  Slate 
Lick  burying  ground  his  body  lies  awaiting  the  resurrection  of  the 
just. 

J.  Rev.  William  F.  Kean — The  cliurcli  in  a  few  months 
found  a  worthy  successor  to  their  former  pastor  in  the  person  of 
William  F.  Kean,  who  was  licensed  to  preach  the  gospel  by  the 
Presbyterv  of  Blairsville  in  January,  1848.  Mr.  Kean  was  the  son 
of  William  Kean,  who  came  from  Ireland  to  tliis  country  when 
about  twelve  years  of  age.  His  mother  was  Margaret  Freeman. 
He  did  not  begin  his  studies  for  the  ministry  until  he  was  about 
twenty-eight  years  of  age.  At  that  time  he  was  a  very  successful 
farmer.  He  began  preaching  here  and  at  Freeport  as  a  supply 
shortly  after  Mr.  Redick's  resignation,  and  in  October,  1849,  was 
ordained  and  installed  as  pastor  of  these  two  churches.  He  had  his 
residence  in  Freeport.  On  the  11th  of  September,  1850,  he 
secured  an  accomplished  helpmeet  in  tlie  person  of  Miss  Helen 
Maclean,  of  Springdale,  to  whom   he  was  devotedly  attached  until 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  831 

the  day  of  his  death.  His  charge  of  this  church  continued  until  in 
June,  1864,  when,  at  his  own  request,  he  was  released  in  order  to 
give  his  entire  service  to  Freeport.  His  pastorate  at  Freeport  con- 
tinued until  the  fall  of  1868.  His  preaching  was  logical,  often 
expository,  enriched  with  free  quotation  of  scripture,  full  of  gospel 
marrow,  in  strict  and  intelligent  accord  with  the  recognized  stand- 
ards of  his  church,  and  aimed  more  to  affect  the  heart  than  to  please 
the  fancy  of  his  hearers.  Gifted  in  the  use  of  language,  his  sermons 
often  ro<;e  to  the  pitch  of  eloquence  when  his  strong  nature  was 
swayed  by  some  great  gospel  theme.  In  prayer  betimes  his  diction 
seemed  wonderful.  He  was  a  man  of  magnificent  form  and  com- 
manding presence.  He  had  a  voice  like  a  trumpet  and  an  eye  of 
peculiar  power.  Mr.  Kean  was  very  genial  in  his  nature,  and 
bringing  good  cheer  with  him,  was  always  a  welcome  guest  at  the 
homes  of  his  people.  He  had  a  large,  warm  heart  and  a  noble 
nature.  From  everything  little,  mean  or  underhanded  his  soul 
instinctively  shrank.  He  was  fond  of  a  good  horse,  and  knew  how 
to  handle  one,  and  many  will  remember  in  what  almost  princely 
style  he  used  to  ride  up  to  the  tree  where  he  was  wont  to  tie  his 
spirited  steed.  If  he  had  been  a  soldier  what  a  magnificent  general 
he  would  have  made! 

During  the  war  he  was  a  Jealous  patriot  and  a  warm  friend  of 
the  "  boys  in  blue,"  particularly  of  those  who  had  gone  forth  from 
his  own  charge.  Twice  he  went  to  the  army  of  the  Cumberland 
as  an  agent  of  the  Christian  Commission.  He  preached  about  a 
year  at  Columbus  City,  Iowa,  in  1869  and  1870.  In  1871  he  made 
a  visit  to  Europe,  Egypt  and  Palestine,  repeating  a  part  of  the 
same  tour  with  his  wife  in  1880.  From  1873  to  1882  he  was  the 
efficient  pastor  of  the  church  at  Braddock.  Having  long  cherished 
a  desire  to  visit  Mexico  and  the  Pacific  coast,  he  set  out  with  his 
wife,  October,  1886.  In  the  providence  of  God  that  proved  his 
last  earthly  joui'ney.  Taken  seriously  ill  with  malignant  blood 
poisoning  on  the  way,  he  died  a  few  days  after  his  arrival  in  San 
Francisco.  His  death  took  place  October  19,  1886.  And  thus 
ended  the  career  of  a  grand,  good  man,  leaving  a  multitude  of 
friends  to  mourn  his  loss.  His  remains  were  brought  back,  and 
after  service  conducted  in  the  First  Church,  Pittsburgh,  were  laid 
tenderly   to   rest    at   Tarentum.     Only    his    spiritual  children  ever 


'S'62  HISTORY    OF    THE 


called  him  father.       In   lonely  <rv'\ei   his  wife  sits  in  the  shadow  of 
her  jjreiit  l)creavement. 

4.  Rev.  Thomas  C.  Andcrso7i — From  this  point  onward  the 
pastors  of  this  church  are  livinj^,  and  a  hrief  notice  of  each  is  all 
that  will  be  attempted.  About  fifteen  months  after  Mr.  Kean's 
departure  a  new  pastor  was  secured  in  the  person  of  Rev.  Thomas 
C,  Anderson,  who  was  installed  October  17,  1865.  During  his  pas- 
torate Slate  Lick  had  no  .onnection  with  any  other  church — the 
only  time  in  all  her  history.  After  he  left  this  church  he  secured 
as  the  partner  of*  his  ministerial  joys  and  sorrows  Miss  Fannie 
Baker,  of  Phil-tdelphia.  Mr.  Anderson  was  a  faithful  pastor  and 
an  earnest  preacher  of  a  pure  gospel.  He  was  released  from  his 
charge  in  June,  1868.  He  has  since  been  settled  at  Huntingdon 
Valley,  Pa.,  and  at  Glasgow,  Del. 

J.  Rev.  John  H.  Aughey — Tlie  following  January  came 
Rev.  John  H.  Aughey.  By  invitation  he  preached  two  Sabbath«, 
and  so  impressed  the  people  that  they  gave  him  a  call.  The 
church  at  Clinton  also  called  him  for  one-fourth  time.  The  install- 
ation took  place  at  Slate  Lick,  May  8,  1869,  Rev.  J.  McPherrin 
giving  the  charge  to  the  pastor,  and  Rev.  J.  M.  Jones  that  to  the 
people.  A  cimrch  having  been  built  at  Srader's  Grove,  Mr. 
Aughey  preached  there  also,  although  the  organization  was  not 
effected  until  May  1,  1871.  This  pastorate  was  very  brief,  closing 
in  April  of  the  following  year.  During  his  stay  he  had  his  resi- 
dence in  Clinton.  Since  his  removal  he  has  been  pastor  or  supply 
at  Slippery  Rock,  Pa.;  St.  Louis,  Mo.;  Leavenworth,  Ind.;  Dallas, 
W.  Va.;  Congress,  O.;  Farmington,  111.:  Seaton,  111.  He  is  now 
at  Chariton,  Iowa. 

6.  Rev.  William  M.  Kain — About  the  beginning  of  1871, 
Rev.  VV.  M.  Kain  began  preaching  as  a  supply.  Accepting  calls 
from  this  church  and  that  of  Srader's  Grove,  he  was  installed  at 
Slate  Lick,  January  24,  1872,  by  a  committee  of  the  Presbytery  of 
Kittanning,  Rev.  T.  D.  Ewing  presiding,  Rev.  D.  Hall,  D.  D.,  by 
invitation,  preaching  the  sermon,  Rev.  H.  Magill  giving  charge  to 
the  pastor,  and  Rev.  S.  H.  Holliday  to  the  people.  This  pastorate, 
like  its  immediate  predecessor,  was  destined  to  be  short.  Mr.  Kain 
was  released  from  Slate  Lick,  October  8d,  and  from  Srader's 
Grove,  December  17th,  following.       Mr.  Kain  had  been  a  lawyer 


^  PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  333 

before  he  entered  the  ministry,  and  his  preaching  was  of  a  vigor- 
ous, bknit,  unadorn-.d  tj^pe,  suggesting  that  it  was  aimed  more  to 
gain  the  verdict  of  the  jury  than  to  please  the  audience.  After 
leaving  here  he  was  pastor  at  Penn  Station,  Pa.,  and  supply  at 
Rome,  O.,  but  for  several  years  has  done  only  evangelistic  work. 

7.  Rev.  B.  Fra7ik  Boyle — In  November,  1872,  a  young  man 
•of  genial  nature  and  ardent  temperament,  then  a  student  in  the 
seminary  at  Allegheny,  came  here  and  preached  with  so  much 
acceptance  that  the  people  began  to  feel  that  possibly  they  saw  in 
his  person  their  next  pastor.  This  proved  to  be  the  case,  for  the 
following  spring  the  two  churches  of  the  charge  gave  him  hearty 
•calls.  He  was  ordained  and  installed  at  Slate  Lick,  June  25,  1873, 
Rev.  D.  J.  Irwin  presiding  and  giving  the  charge  to  the  people. 
Rev.  A,  Donaldson,  D.  D.,  preaching  the  sermon,  and  Rev.  S.  A. 
Hughes  giving  the  charge  to  the  pastor.  The  installation  at 
Srader's  Grove  took  place  September  16th,  following.  Mr  Boyle 
was  an  earnest  preacher  of  the  old  gospel,  a  laborious  and  sympa- 
thetic pastor,  and  a  warm  hearted  friend.  During  the  years  of  his 
ministry  some  old  strifes  were  allayed,  and  the  church  made  sub- 
stantial progress.  Early  in  his  pastorate,  and  for  his  use,  the  pres- 
ent substantial  parsonage  was  built.  As  a  companion  in  his  labors 
here  he  secured  a  worthy  wife  in  the  person  of  Miss  Celia  G. 
Miller,  of  Latrobe.  In  the  spring  ot  1882,  greatly  to  the  surprise 
and  regret  of  the  people,  Mr.  Boyle  asked  release.  His  request 
was  granted  by  the  Presbytery,  April  25,  1882,  he  having  fulfilled 
a  ministry  of  about  nine  years.  For  four  years  past  he  was  pastor 
at  Irwin,  Pa.,  and  is  now  at  Larned,  Kansas. 

8.  Rev.  yohn  C.  McCracken — This  brings  us  to  the  present 
energetic  and  successful  pastor.  Long  may  he'  be  the  last  of  the 
list!  This  church  seems  from  its  record  opposed  to  long  inter- 
regnums, and  to  have  the  faculty  of  picking  up  pastors  when 
needed.  Calls  from  the  churches  of  the  charge  being  accepted  by 
Rev.  John  C.  McCracken,  he  was  duly  installed,  November  2, 
1882,  Rev.  H.  L.  Mayers  preaching  and  giving  the  charge  to  the 
people,  and  Rev.  J.  S.  Atkinson,  by  request,  giving  the  charge  to 
the  pastor.  Mr.  McCracken  has  a  secure  place  in  the  affections  of 
his  23eople,  as  has  his  wife,  formerly  Miss  Emma  Hill,  of  Leech- 
bursf. 


334  HISTORY    OF    THE 


RULING    ELDERS. 

The  elders  of  this  church  at  its  organization  were  Thomas  Fails, 
George  Long  and  Adam  Maxwell.  Thomas  Fails  lived  on  the 
place  now  owned  by  J.  J.  Rea.  Mr.  Long  died  December  30, 
1815.  In  1808,  James  Hill  and  Jonathan  Moore  were  added.  Mr. 
Hill  lived  on  the  farm  since  owned  by  Finley  Wilson.  In  1809, 
Mr.  Moore  removed  to  Ohio.  The  next  addition  was  William 
Morrison.  The  exact  date  is  unknown.  For  many  years  he  was 
clerk  of  the  session.  He  died  May  26,  1862.  About  1830,  Arthur 
Hill  and  James  Green  were  chosen  to  the  eldership.  The  dates 
of  removal  or  death  have  not  been  ascertained.  March  19,1844, 
a  fifth  election  was  held,  resulting  in  the  choice  of  John  Boyd,  Jas. 
Blaine  and  Joseph  Galbreath,  who  were  inducted  into  office,  April 
21st,  following.  In  1853,  Mr.  Galbreath  was  dismissed  to  Buffalo 
Church.  John  Boyd  was  for  many  years  clerk  of  the  session  until 
his  sudden  death,  November  15,  1880.  James  Blaine  died  Decem- 
ber 29,  1883. 

The  sixth  election  resulted  in  the  choice  of  William  Rea,  Jas. 
Hall  and  James  Boyd.  Mr.  Boyd  did  not  accept,  and  the  other 
two  were  ordained  and  installed,  March  25,  1853.  About  1863, 
Mr.  Hall  removed,  though  for  a  few  years  past  he  has  been  again 
in  the  bounds  of  the  congregation.  At  the  next  election  James 
Brown,  James  Redick,  Samuel  Sloan  and  James  Shields  were 
chosen.  Mr.  Redick  declined  the  office,  and  the  others  were  duly 
inducted,  October  4,  1861.  Mr.  vShields  was  dismissed  to  Freeport 
early  in  1866,  and  died  August  30,  1887.  Mr.  Sloan  died  October 
15,  1876.  The  eighth  and  last  election  resulted  in  the  choice  of  J. 
C.  Cheeseman,  M.  D.,  and  H.  C.  Bricker,  who  were  inducted  into 
office  January  9,  1881.  Prof.  J.  S.  Brown  was  also  chosen,  but 
declined  to  serve.  Dr.  Cheeseman  is  now  clerk  of  the  session.  The 
whole  number  of  elders  has  been  eighteen,  showing  long  average 
terms  of  service.  Of  their  lives  and  works  in  detail  time  would 
fail  me  to  speak.  So  far  as  known,  they  have  been  godly,  faithful 
men.  Twelve  of  them  rest  from  their  labors  and  have  entered  into 
their  reward. 

THE    SERVICE    OF    PRAISE. 

This  congregation  has  long  been  noted  for  the  heartiness  and 
general  excellence  of  its  singing  in  the  public  worshijD  of  the  sanc- 
tuary, the  people  almost  without  exception  joining  in  this  delightful 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  335 

service.  As  long  as  sixty  years  ago  the  art  of  vocal  music  was 
taught  here,  and  the  people  became  familiar  with  the  book  called 
**The  Beauties  of  Harmony." 

During  the  early  years  of  this  church  the  old  version  of  the 
psalms,  known  as  Rouse's,  was  used  in  the  service  of  praise.  Just 
when  this  congregation  ceased  the  exclusive  use  of  Rouse's  version 
I  have  been  unable  to  learn.  But  it  seems  to  have  been  some  time 
during  the  pastorate  of  Mr.  Redick.  The  collection  used  was  that 
with  versions  of  the  Bible  psalms  and  an  arrangement  of  hymns  in 
three  parts  or  «  books."  In  a  congregation  as  conservative  as  this 
one  it  might  be  expected  that  the  introduction  of  hymns  would  meet 
with  some  opposition.  However,  no  formidable  remonstrance  was 
made,  and  the  peace  of  the  congregation  suffered  no  serious  disturb- 
ance. 

So  far  as  known  the  first  leader  in  the  service  of  praise  was 
William  Morrison,  for  a  long  time  before  his  death  familiarly 
known  as  "  Grandfather  Morrison."  With  him  was  associated 
James  Foreman,  for  a  time,  and  their  service  extended  through  per- 
haps thirty-five  years.  Then  followed  James  Shields  and  William 
Ralston,  and  again  James  Sloan  and  James  Hall.  The  service  of 
these  men,  or  some  of  them,  continued  until  about  1853.  Near 
this  time,  in  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  W.  F.  Kean,  himself  a  lover  of 
music,  and  having  a  good  gift  in  that  direction,  a  choir  was  made 
up  of  selected  persons,  although  out  of  deference  to  a  feeling  of 
suspicion  on  the  part  of  some  in  regard  to  choirs,  the  name  was  not 
much  emphasized.  These  pei-sons  sat  in  the  rear  of  the  church. 
Robert  ^l.  Kiskaddon  being  leader.  Other  leaders  for  periods 
longer  or  shorter  in  order  as  nearly  as  recollected  have  been:  John 
A.  Hall,  Robert  A.  Kiskaddon,  M.  Hillis  Boyd,  William  Sloan, 
John  E.  Sloan,  J.  Shields  Brown,  J.  Harvey  Blaine,  Harvey 
Bricker.  Since  Mr.  B.'s  death  in  the  spring  of  1887,  no  one  has  been 
specially  designated  as  leader.  In  September,  1876,  an  organ  was 
first  introduced.  The  organists  who  have  served  in  turn  or  as  occa- 
sion required  have  been  J.  S.  Brown,  J.  M.  Blaine,  Annie  Bricker, 
(Mrs.  W.  J.  Boggs),  Annie  McCaslin,  Emma  Robinson  and 
Mollie  Barnes.  In  the  present  church  the  choir  occupied  the  gallery 
until  1887,  when  ♦^^hey  took  position  on  a  platform  to  the  left  of 
the  pulpit. 


336  HISTORY    OF    THE 


SABBATH    SCHOOL. 

Owing  to  the  lack  of  full  and  connected  records,  only  a  very- 
general  account  of  the  Sabbath  School  can  be  given.  It  is  said 
that  a  school  had  been  organized  as  early  as  1818,  but  having  died 
out  it  was  reorganized  about  1832.  Its  first  superintendents  were 
John  Rea  and  James  Boyd.  For  several  years,  about  1850,  no 
school  was  held  in  the  church,  partly  from  the  fact  that  few  of 
those  ordinarily  in  attendance  were  in  the  immediate  vicinity  of  the 
church.  At  this  period  school  was  held  in  Wilson's  school  house, 
about  three  miles  northward  from  the  church.  On  being  re- 
opened it  is  thought  James  Brown  and  William  Rea  were  mostly 
in  charge  as  superintendents.  John  Boyd,  Esq.,  at  different  times 
filled  this  ofiice  for  sixteen  years,  the  last  term  being  from  about 
1871  to  1876.  In  1859,  James  Brown  and  William  Rea  were  the 
superintendents;  in  1862,  James  Brown  and  William  Rea;  in  1866, 
D.  H.  Sloan  and  Prof.  H.  W.  Parks;  from  1867  to  1871,  D.  H. 
Sloan;  from  1876  to  1881,  J.  Shields  Brown;  1882,  James  Hall; 
1883,  John  F.Boyd;  1884,  S.  R.  Gibson;  1885-6,  Rev.  J.  C. 
McCracken;  1887,  S.  R.  Gibson. 

Until  the  incumbency  of  J.  S.  Brown,  the  school  was  open 
only  during  the  summer  months,  but  since  then  the  entire  year. 
The  membership  as  last  reported  is  159. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

About  the  beginning  of  the  pastorate  of  Mr.  Kean  the  use  of 
*'  tokens"  in  connection  with  the  administration  of  the  Lord's  Sup* 
per  was  discontinued.  Abut  the  same  time  the  use  of  tables  for 
communion  purposes  was  abandoned. 

During  Mr.  Kean's  pastorate  in  the  early  part  of  the  year  1858, 
the  church  was  visited  with  a  precious  revival  of  religion,  the  whole 
community  being  stirred  and  the  church  being  filled  from  night  to 
night  with  deeply  interested  congregations.  As  a  result  of  this 
awakening,  forty-three  persons  were  added  to  the  church.  Years 
after  the  pastor  was  wont  to  speak  of  that  occasion  with  deep  feel- 
ing, and  precious  memories  of  the  scenes  then  witnessed  are  yet 
cherished  by  many. 

Attached  to  the  church  lot  of  this  congregation  is  a  burial  place 
inclosing  about  an   acre  of  ground.       It  has  been  enlarged  two  or 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  337 

three  times  to  make  room  for  the  increasing  numbers  of  those  seek- 
ing place  in  this  "  city  of  the  dead."  This  is  the  oldest  burial  place 
in  the  neighborhood,  and  here,  all  in  peace  together,  their  day  of 
hardy  toil  as  the  pioneers  of  civilization  being  ended,  under  many  a 
grassy  mound, 

"  The  rude  forefathers  of  the  hamlet  sleep." 

The  present  officers  of  this  church  are  the  following:  Elders, 
James  Brown,  William  Rea,  J.  C.  Cheeseman,  H.  C.  Bricker; 
Trustees,  James  Boyd,  Oliver  C.  Stonecipher,  James  Adams; 
Superintendent  of  Sabbath  School,  Samuel  R.  Gibson. 

The  membership  of  the  church  has  steadily  increased  from  the 
beginning,  although  owing  to  the  oi^ganization  of  other  churches 
around  it  representing  the  same  faith,  the  aggregate  has  never  been 
very  large.  The  number  of  members  at  the  organization  is  not 
now  known.  In  1832  there  were  120;  in  1840,  138;  in  1865,  162; 
in  1875,  141;  in  1880,  174;  in  1887,  196;  in  1888,  200. 

Of  the  sons  of  this  church  born  and  reared  within  its  bounds  or 
at  some  time  upon  its  roll,  ten  have  entered  the  ministry  of  the 
Presbyterian  Church,  and  all  are  living  to-day,  as  follows:  Robert 
A.  Hill,  John  F.  Hill,  David  Hall,  James  S.  Boyd,  David  H. 
Sloan,  J.  Harvey  Shields,  A.  Fulton  Boyd,  Robert  McCaslin, 
David  R.  McCaslin  and  Joseph  L.  Weaver.  David  Law,  became 
a  minister  of  the  Cumberland  Presbyterian  Church,  and  is  now 
deceased. 

In  a  few  years  more  this  church  will  enter  the  second  century 
of  her  existence.  May  her  future  be  increasingly  bright  and  pros- 
perous! Through  coming  generations  may  she  stand  here  an 
advocate  and  exponent  of  a  sound  faith  and  a  pure  morality,  her 
sons  and  daughters,  w^hether  remaining  in  her  bounds  or  going  out 
to  other  and  distant  places,  ever  living  to  honor  the  Christian  name 
and  to  bless  the  world ! 


43 


338  HISTORY    OF    THE 


SMICKSBURG. 


BY    REV.    GEORGE    W.    MECHLIN,    D.    D. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


ORGANIZATION. 


The  desire  for  a  Presbyterian  Church  in  this  village,  situated  in 
the  northwest  corner  of  Indiana  county,  was  indicated  in  a  subscrip- 
tion paper  drawn  December  20,  1852,  for  the  purpose  of  erecting  a 
building.  This  paper  was  signed  by  over  one  hundred  names, 
many  of  them  members  of  other  denominations,  with  sums  annexed 
varying  from  one  hundred  dollars  to  one  dollar:  Joseph  Robinson, 
$100.00  in  material,  J.  H.  McComb  and  Robert  Jordan,  each 
$25.00.  Smaller  sums  are  annexed  to  the  other  names.  The 
paper  footed  about  $540. 

Early  in  the  next  year  Joseph  Robinson,  R.  Jordan,  J.  T.  Kerr, 
J.  H.  McComb,  J.  A.  McCormick  and  Lysander  Barrett  were 
selected  as  a  building  committee,  who  purchased  two  lots  of  J.  Y. 
Brady  and  James  Work,  and  proceeded  to  build  a  frame  church,  40 
by  45  feet,  one-story,  according  to  a  draft  prepared  by  William  M. 
Findley.  The  contract  was  let  to  George  Condron,  August  19, 
1854,  for  three  hundred  and  fifty  dollars.  He  appears  to  have  only 
completed  the  building  as  far  as  the  walls,  roofing  and  floor.  It 
was  afterwards  finished  by  Jacob  H.  Jamison,  and  painted  by  John 
McCormick.  The  cost  was  from  $1,300  to  $1,400,  which  was 
raised  by  various  subscriptions,  extending  beyond  the  congregation. 
The  church  was  organized  June  9,  1854,  by  a  committee  appointed 
by  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsvill^,  consisting  of  Rev.  C.  Forbes, 
Rev.    John    Caruthers    and    William   Kirkpatrick,   elder.       The 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  339 

following  appear  to  have  been  the  members  enrolled  at  the  organiza- 
tion: Thomas  M.  Travis,  Mrs.  Jane  Y.  Travis,  Mrs.  Margaret 
Hill,  Mrs.  Margaret  Adams,  Mrs.  Margaret  and  Miss  Sarah 
Ritchey,  Mrs.  Catharine  Irwin,  Mrs.  Elizabeth  Robinson,  John  C. 
Alcorn,  Mrs.  Susan  Alcorn,  Andrew  L.  McCluskey,  Mrs.  Eva 
McCluskey,  David  and  Mrs.  Nancy  Warner,  Marcus  and  Mrs. 
Nancy  and  Mrs.  L.  Barrett,  Mrs.  Sarah  Y.  Lannum,  Lysander 
and  Mrs.  Elizabeth  Barrett,  Mrs.  Rachel  McCormick,  James  and 
Mrs.  Margaret  Y.  Gourley,  Miss  Lousia  B.  Gourley,  John  and 
Nancy  and  Mrs.  Elizabeth  McClelland,  Mrs.  Sarah  Jane  Barrett 
and  William  and  Mrs.  Jane  Travis. 

ELDERS. 

John  McClelland,  Joseph  W.  Marshall  and  David  Warner 
were  elected  and  ordained  elders.  The  last  soon  removed  West, 
and  our  knowledge  of  his  history  ceased.  J.  W.  Marshall  after- 
wards united  with  Plumville  Church,  and,  therefore,  ceased  to  be 
an  elder  in  this  church.  Mr.  McClelland,  aged  and  infirm,  sur- 
vives and  still  is  devoted  to  the  work  to  which  he  was  called  by  the 
church.  Robert  Jordan  and  William  G.  Travis  were  ordained 
September,  1866.  Mr.  Jordan  died  some  years  ago  a  member  of 
Gilgal  Church.  Mr.  Travis  died  June  5,  1886.  For  twenty  years 
he  was  devoted  to  the  sustaining  of  this  church  by  his  prayers, 
time  and  means.  His  loss  is  greatly  felt.  He  had  been  clerk  of 
the  session  for  many  years.  William  H.  Crawford,  Cyrus  E. 
Barrett  and  Robert  Marshall  were  ordained  and  installed  by  Rev. 
G.  W.  Mechlin  in  1879.  Mr.  Marshall  died  August,  1885.  His 
death  was  another  very  serious  loss  to  the  congregation.  Liberal 
with  his  means,  respected  by  all  who  knew  him  and  sincerely 
devoted  to  the  spiritual  and  temporal  prosperity  of  the  church,  his 
removal  has  left  a  void  in  this  little  flock  hard  to  fill.  Messrs. 
Crawford  and  Barrett  yet  survive,  and  with  Mr.  McClelland  com- 
pose the  present  session,  who  are  working  and  waiting  for  times  of 
refreshing  from  the  Lord  on  this  "  handful  of  corn  in  the  earth 
upon  the  top  of  the  mountains."  Mr.  Barrett  is  now  clerk  of  the 
session. 

PASTORS    AND    SUPPLIES. 

Rev.  C.  Forbes  supplied  it  with  preaching  occasionally  while 
he  remained  at  Glade  Run.  Rev.  J.  H.  Kirkpatrick,  G.  W. 
Mechlin  and  others  preached   as  supplies  from  time   to  time,  until 


840  HISTORY    OF    THl 


Rev.  J.  M.  Jones  began  his  labors  in  1862.  He  was  installed, 
September  29th.  Rev.  J.  Caruthers  preached  the  sermon,  Rev. 
D.  D.  Christy  gave  the  charge  to  the  pastor,  and  Rev.  G.  W. 
Mechlin  to  the  people.  He  was  released  June  23,  1868.  Rev. 
Carl  Moore  was  installed,  August  31,  1869.  Rev.  W.  F.  Morgan 
preached,  Rev.  J.  Caruthers  presided  and  charged  the  pastor,  Rev. 
J.  Logan  Sample,  the  people.  He  was  released  June  23,  1873. 
These  are  the  pastors  of  this  church.  Each  was  installed  for  one- 
fourth  time. 

Revs.  W.  F.  Morgan,  C.  C.  B.  Duncan  and  James  Caldwell 
were  stated  supplies  each  for  a  time,  dates  not  known. 

The  following  students  preached  during  their  vacations  in  their 
seminary  course,  about  five  months  each:  L.  Mechlin,  1875;  H.  T. 
McClelland,  1876 ;  J.  C.  McCracken,  1877 ;  John  S.  Helm,  1879-81 ; 
A.  J.  Hen-ies,  1882. 

Occasional  supplies  were  appointed  by  the  Presbytery  until  the 
fall  of  1884,  when  the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning  requested  the 
church  of  Glade  Run  to  allow  their  pastor  to  give  Smicksburg 
Church  some  portion  of  his  time  for  afternoon  service.  Glade  Run 
acceded  to  this  request  at  their  annual  meeting,  January  3,  1885, 
granting  "  Rev.  G.  W.  Mechlin,  D.  D.,  their  pastor  liberty  to  sup- 
ply Smicksburg  Church  once  or  twice  each  month  in  the  afternoon 
and  two  Sabbaths  of  each  year  to  hold  communions."  This  arrange- 
ment still  continues.  The  membership  roll  contains  126  names,  of 
whom  only  about  20  now  remain,  and  some  of  them  are  quite  old 
and  feeble.  The  others  have  died  or  removed.  Several  of  the 
largest  families  emigrated  to  the  West.  Those  still  remaining  are 
holding  on  in  hopes  of  greater  strength  in  days  to  come.  They 
are  united  and  harmonious.  The  inhabitants  of  the  vicinity  are 
nearly  all  allied  to  churches  of  other  denominations.  The 
Lutheran  Church  kindly  opened  their  building  to  the  use  of  the 
Presbyterians  for  years,  until  their  house  of  worship  was  ready  for 
occupancy,  and  in  other  ways  have  shown  kindness  to  their 
younger  sister. 

A  charter  of  incorporation,  which  legally  secures  the  property 
of  the  church,  was  obtained  from  the  court  of  Indiana  county  some 
two  or  three  years  ago.  The  present  trustees  are  Cyrus  E.  Barrett, 
W.  H.  Crawford  and  Wilson  Bowser. 


PRESBYTERY    OF   KITTANNING.  "341 


SPADER'S  GROVE, 


rTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY    REV.    J.   C.    m'cRACKEN. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTf 


In  the  year  1868,  seven  families,  viz.,  those  of  John  G.  Weavei*^ 
James  Shields,  William  M.  Hill,  William  Hill,  Robert  J.  Hill,  A. 
C.  Srader  and  M.  H.  Boyd,  with  a  view  of  securing  an  organiza- 
tion, proceeded  to  the  erection  of  a  building  on  a  lot  donated  for 
the  purpose  by  Mr.  Andrew  Srader,  Sr.  This  building,  a  neat 
little  frame,  was  completed  June,  1869,  at  a  cost  of  something  over 
-$2,000.  They  asTced  at  once  for  an  organization,  but  it  was  not 
granted  them  until  April  4,  1871. 

The  organization  was  effected  May  1,  1871,  by  a  committee  of 
Kittanning  Presbytery,  consisting  of  Rev.  John  M.  Jones,  Rev.  A. 
S.  Thompson  and  elder  James  Quigley.  A  sermon  was  preached 
by  Rev.  John  M.Jones,  after  which  an  expression  was  given  by 
the  members  present  of  their  desire  to  be  organized  into  a  Presby- 
terian church.  Whereupon  the  committee  proceedetl  with  the 
organization,  which  they  called  Srader's  Grove,  because  the 
church  is  situated  in  a  beautiful  grove,  formerly  belonging  to  the 
Srader  farm. 

The  following  persons  presented  certificates  from  other 
churches:  from  Slate  Lick  Presbyterian  church,  James  Shields  and 
Rebecca  Shields,  John  G,  Weaver  and  Margaret  Weaver,  Joseph 
and  Jacob  Weaver,  Andrew  C.  and  Eleanor  Srader,  Andrew 
Srader,  Sr.,  and  Elizabeth  Srader,  Robert  J.  Hill,  Mary  Hill,  Wil- 
liam Hill,  Elizabeth  Hill,  Rachel  B.  Hill,  Elizabeth   Hill,  Jr.,  M. 


342  HISTORY    OF    THE 


Hillis  Boyd,  Elizabeth  F.  Boyd,  William  vSloan,  Mary  Sloan,  and 
from  the  church  of  Freeport,  John  G.  Bowser  and   Eliza  Bowser. 

Four  persons  were  elected  to  the  office  of  ruling  elder,  viz., 
James  Shield^  R-  J-  Hill,  John  G.  Weaver,  and  M.  Hillis  Boyd. 
Mr.  Hill  declined  to  serve.  Messrs.  John  G.  Weaver  and  M. 
Hillis  Boyfl  were  ordained,  May  26,  1871,  Mr.  Tames  Shields  hav- 
ing been  an  acting  elder  in  Freeport  church,  and  all  three  were 
installed.  Messrs.  William  Hill,  Andrew  C.  Srader  and  William 
Sloan  were  elected  deacons  and  installed  as  such,  May  28,  1872. 
On  May  18,  1872,  Mr.  W.  B.  Srader  and  wife  were  received  on 
certificate  from  Union  church.  Mr.  Srader,  having  been  a  ruling 
elder  in  the  church  of  Union,  was  elected  and  installed  as  such  in 
Srader's  Grove  church. 

This  church  was  organized  with  twenty-two  members,  and 
now,  1887,  has  a  membership  of  seventy-eight.  The  Sabbath 
School  membershijD  is  eighty-three,  which  keeps  about  the  same 
the  whole  year.  The  following  persons  have  served  as  superin- 
tendents of  the  Sabbath  School:  1869  and  1870,  John  G.  Weaver; 

1871,  M.  H.  Boyd;  1872,  James  Shields;  1873,  M.  H.  Boyd; 
1874,  W.  B.  Srader;  1875,  William  Sloan;  1876,  John  G.  Weaver; 
1877,  L.    H.  Otterman;  1878,  William  Sloan;  1879-1880,  W.  H. 

Boyd;  1881, ;  1882-1884,    M.   H.    Boyd;  1885,    W.  J. 

Kiskaddon;  1886-  1888,  ^I.  H.  Boyd. 

The  music  in  church  and  Sabbath  School  is  under  the  super- 
vision of  Messrs.  M.  H.  Boyd  and  William  Sloan.  From  the 
organization  of  the  church  till  January  1,  1883,  the  book  of  praise 
entitled  •'  Psalms,  Hymns  and  Selections,"  was  used,  and  since  that 
time  the  Presbyterian  Hymnal  has  been  used.  An  organ  was  never 
used  in  worship  until  January,  1884,  when  the  instrument  now  in 
use  was  introduced. 

This  church  has  been  ministered  to  as  follows:  Rev.  J.  H. 
Aughey,  supply,  from  January,  1869,  to  April,  1870;  Rev.  W.  M. 
Kain,  supply  for  a  few^  months  and   then  pastor,  from  January  24, 

1872,  to  December  17,  1872;  Rev.  B.  F.  Boyle,  supply  and  then 
pastor,  from  August  14,  1873,  to  April  25,  1882;  since  October  1, 
1882,  it  has  been  served  by  the  present  incumbent,  John  C. 
McCracken,  who  was  installed  November  2,  1882. 

Srader's  Grove  has  always  been  connected  with  Slate  Lick  in 
supporting  a  pastor,  the  former  taking  one-fourth  of  the  pastor's 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  843 

time  and  having  preaching  regularly  each  alternate   Sabbath  in  the 
afternoon. 

During  the  autumn  of  1883,  the  church  building  was  renovated 
and  very  much  improved  in  appearance.  At  this  time  the  church 
has  but  three  elders,  Mr.  James  Shields  having  died  August  30, 
1887;  and  but  two  deacons,  Mr.  William  Hill  having  died  June 
19,  1884.     For  further  notice  of  pastors,  see  Slate  Lick. 


34:4  HISTORY    OF    THE 


STRONGSTOWR. 


BY    REV.    D.    H.    SLOAN. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


This  was  a  small  congregation  with  a  short  and  not  specially 
brilliant  record.  It  was  located  in  the  eastern  part  of  Indiana  county, 
at  the  hamlet  whose  name  it  bore,  on  the  highway  leading  from 
Indiana  to  Ebensburg.  It  was  organized  by  the  Presbytery  of 
Blairsville,  November  19,  1849.  How  many  were  its  original 
members  has  not  been  ascertained.  Its  name  first  appears  in  the 
statistical  reports  of  this  Presbytery  in  1860,  when  it  is  credited 
with  twenty -two  members,  and  as  having  paid  $34  for  congrega- 
tional purposes.  The  next  year  and  each  succeeding  year  to  1865, 
it  is  credited  in  the  reports  with  thirteen  members.  In  1860  and 
1861,  it  was  recommended  to  the  Board  of  Domestic  Missions  for 
aid  to  the  amount  of  $30.  For  a  time  during  the  earlier  part  of 
its  existence  it  enjoyed  the  services  of  Rev.  J.  H.  Kirkpatrick  as  a 
stated  supply.  Aside  from  this  arrangement  it  had  only  occasional 
supplies.  Dr.  Donaldson  in  1873,  thus  summed  up  its  history  in 
the  respect  now  under  consideration :  "  No  pastor,  one  stated  sup- 
ply, and  a  long,  long  vacancy."  At  that  time,  however,  the 
church  had  no  separate  existence,  as  Presbytery  had  formally  dis- 
solved it,  October  4,  1865.  The  record  is  as  follows:  "  On  motion 
of  Rev.  A.  McElwain  the  members  of  Strongstown  church  were 
transferred  to  the  church  of  Harmony,  and  the  name  of  Strongs- 
town  was  stricken  from  the  roll  of  Presbytery." 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANXING.  345 


TUNNELTON. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY    REV.    D.    H.    SLOAN. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


To  the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning  in  session,  April  24,  1878,  a 
petition  signed  by  a  number  of  persons,  twenty-four  of  whom 
were  church  members,  was  presented  asking  for  the  organization  of 
a  church  at  or  near  Kelley's  Station,  Indiana  county,  Pa.,  and  a 
committee  consisting  of  Revs.  F.  Orr,  P.  Baker  and  elder  S.  J. 
Craighead  was  appointed  to  visit  the  place  and  make  report.  The 
report  of  the  committee  being  favorable,  Presbytery  granted  the 
organization,  July  10,  1878,  and  appointed  Revs.  F.  Orr  and  John 
Gourley  and  elder  W.  T.  N.  Wallace,  to  effect  the  organization 
which  was  accomplished,  Augu>-t  9,  1878,  the  church  taking  the 
name  of  Tunnelton. 

The  church  was  organized  with  nineteen  members.  The 
names  of  thehe  so  far  as  reported,  are  the  following,  viz :  Joseph 
Critzer,  Martha  Critzer,  Joseph  Elliott,  Elizabeth  C.  Elliott, 
Isabella  Crusan,  Letitia  C.  Dunlap,  W.  W.  Spence,  E.  J.  Spence, 
Margaret  Jones,  Catharine  Johnston,  Margaret  McLaughlin, 
Martha  Crusan,  E.J.  Patton,  B.J.  Patton,  Mary  McLaughlin. 

The  congregation  owns  a  lot  of  ground  which  was  purchased 
of  Samuel  Waddle.  On  this  is  erected  a  frame  house  of  worship, 
in  size  fifty  by  fifty-two  feet,  well  furnished,  and  valued  at  one 
thousand  dollars. 

This  church  has  never  had  a  regularly  installed  pastor.  From 
the  time  of  organization  until  1885,  Rev.  Franklin  Orr  served  the 
church  as  a  stated  supply.  During  1886  and  1887,  it  was  regularly 
supplied   by  Rev.   T.   R.   Ewing,    D.    D.,    of  the    Presbytery    of 

44 


846  HISTORY    OK    THE 


Blairsvillc,  and  since  that  time  by  Rev.  A.  A.  Hough,  of  the  same 
Presbytery. 

At  the  time  of  organization,  Joseph  Elliott  and  Joseph  Critzer 
were  ordained  and  installed  as  ruling  elders.  Nathaniel  Nesbit 
was  added  to  the  session,  April  23,  1881,  Samuel  M.  Nesl^t,  Octo- 
ber 18,  1884,  and  John  E.  Gill  since  the  last  date.  The  three  per- 
sons last  named  constitute  the  present  session  of  which  Samuel  M. 
Nesbit  is  clerk. 

The  membership  as  reported  in  1888,  was  fifty-one. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  347 


UNION. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY    REV.    J.    C.    m'cRACKEN. 


Union  Presbyterian  church,  situated  in  East  Franklin  township, 
Armstrong  county,  Pa.,  is,  with  a  single  exception,  perhaps  the 
oldest  church  of  any  denomination  in  the  county,  and,  with  three 
exceptions,  the  oldest  Presbyterian  church  in  the  Presbytei'y  of 
Kittanning.  It  was  recognized  as  a  congregation  as  early  as  1799, 
as  will  be  seen  more  fully  by  reference  to  the  history  of  Slate  Lick. 

There  is  now  no  means  of  knowing  either  the  number  or  the 
names  of  its  original  members.  Indeed,  little  is  known  of  its 
membership  for  many  years  after  its  organization.  It  is  certain, 
however,  that  the  congregation  took  in  a  large  scope  of  territory. 

The  first  pastor.  Rev.  John  Boyd,  was  installed,  June  26,  1802, 
and  continued  to  serve  this  church  and  Slate  Lick  until  April  17, 
1810.  Both  these  churches  were  greatly  blessed  under  his  min- 
istry. 

As  near  as  can  be  determined,  at  this  time,  the  first  session  con- 
sisted of  Rev.  John  Boyd,  with  elders  Joseph  Shields,  William 
Noble,  Charles  McClatchey  and  James  Barr. 

From  about  the  middle  of  the  year  1810,  the  church  was  served 
about  one  year  by  Rev.  Robert  Lee  as  stated  supply. 

After  an  interim  of  four  years,  during  which  the  church  had 
but  occasional  supplies.  Rev.  John  Redick  received  and  accepted  a 
call  from  Union  in  connection  with  Slate  Lick  and  was  installed, 
September  28,  1815.  To  these  two  churches  he  devoted  his  entire 
pastoral  life,  being  released  from  his  charge  in  the  autumn  of  1848. 

The    congregation    worshipped    in    a    log   church    until    1820, 


848  HISTORY    OF    THE 


except  on  special  occasions,  such  as  communions,  when  it  was  their 
custom  for  forty  years  after  the  organization  to  hold  services  in  a 
large  tent  in  a  grove  heside  the  church.  In  1820,  a  small  frame 
church  was  built,  which,  in  3828,  was  enlarged  by  the  addition  of 
nineteen  feet  to  the  length  of  it.  On  the  first  day  of  January, 
1840,  this  building  was  broken  down  by  the  weight  of  snow  on 
the  roof.  The  following  summer  another  frame  building  was 
erected,  forty  by  sixty  feet,  with  the  ceiling  twelve  feet  high. 

From  the  close  of  Rev.  John  Redick's  pastorate,  in  1848, 
the  church  was  without  a  pastor  until  1851  when  Rev.  Geo* 
Cairns  became  pastor  and  continued  such  for  two  years.  Then 
the  church  was  served  six  months  by  Rev.  J.  F.  Boyd  as  stated 
supply. 

After  this  the  church  was  vacant  until  July  20,  1856,  when 
Rev.  David  Hall  became  pastor  of  this  and  Brady's  Bend  churches 
and  continued  such  until  November,  1866.  During  this  pastorate 
the  membership  of  the  church  reached  two  hundred,  the  highest 
number  ever  attained. 

July  1,  1868,  Rev.  J.  M.  Jones  became  pastor  and  so  continued 
until  October  1,  1873.  This  was  the  first  and  only  pastor  ever 
employed  by  Union  for  full  time. 

In  the  summer  of  1873,  a  lot  was  purchased  on  the  front  street 
of  the  vilalge  of  Middlesex  (Cowansville,  P.  O.)  on  which 
a  two-story  frame  church  was  built,  costing  $4,000.  It  was 
dedicated  by  Rev.  D.  Hall,  D.  D.,  of  Indiana,  and  the  follow- 
ing winter  was  destroyed  by  fire.  The  following  summer,  1874, 
the  present  house,  which  is  frame,  was  built  at  an  expense  of 
$8,600. 

The  next  pastor  was  Rev.  W.  J.  Wilson,  who  was  ordained 
and  installed,  June  4,  1876,  the  church  of  Midway  taking  one-half 
his  time.  This  pastorate  lasted  until  the  fall  of  1879,  after  which 
the  church  was  dependent  on  supplies  until  January  14, 1881,  when 
Rev.  Hezekiah  Magill  became  pastor,  being  installed  for  one-half 
his  time  here,  and  the  other  half  at  Midway.  During  his  pastor 
ate  Union  enjoyed  two  or  three  precious  revivals,  and  large  acces- 
sions were  made  to  her  membership.  In  the  fall  of  1884,  he  was, 
at  his  own  request,  released  by  Presbytery,  and  since  that  time 
Union  has  not  had  a  pastor.  During  the  year  1885,  the  church 
was  supplied   by   Rev.  J.  C.   Shearer,  and,  1886,  by   Mr.  T.   W. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  349 

Swan,  of  the  Western  Theological  Seminary.  Then  Rev.  S.  A. 
Hughes,  of  Parker  City,  supplied  until  April,  1888.  The  follow- 
ing persons  in  addition  to  those  already  mentioned,  have  served  as 
ruling  elders,  viz.:  John  Brown,  John  Craig,  James  Ralston, 
Robert  Shields,  James  Brown,  A.  H.  McKee,  John  Leard,  John 
Ambrose,  William  Patton,  R.  G.  Ralston,  M.  D.,  William  Noble, 
Jr.,  James  Adams,  John  Patton,  James  Wilson  and  Harvey  Patton. 
Of  these  James  Ralston,  John  Leard,  Robert  Shields,  James  Wil- 
son and  Harvey  Patton  are  dead. 

BIOGRAPHICAL    NOTICES    OF     DECEASED    MINISTERS. 

1.  Rev.   John  Boyd.     See  history  of  Slate  Lick. 

2.  Rev.  Robert  Lee.  Mr.  Lee  was  born  in  Donegal,  Ireland, 
in  the  year  1771.  In  the  year  1787,  he  came  with  his  father's 
family  to  this  country  and  settled  in  Washington  county.  Pa.  In 
1794,  when  he  was  twenty-three  years  old,  he  began  a  course  of 
preparation  for  the  ministry,  at  the  Canonsburg  Academy.  This 
he  did  at  the  advice  of  Dr.  John  McMillan,  who  offered  to  aid 
him  in  his  support  whilst  pursuing  his  studies.  After  completing 
the  classical  course  then  prescribed  at  Canonsburg,  he  studied 
theology  under  the  direction  of  Dr.  McMillan,  and  was  taken 
under  the  care  of  the  Presbytery  of  Ohio,  as  a  candidate  for  the 
gospel  ministry,  December  17,  1799.  He  was  licensed  to  preach 
the  gospel  by  the  same  Presbytery,  October  22,  1800.  June  26, 
1801,  he  was  installed  pastor  of  the  churches  of  Amity  and  Big 
Spring.  After  a  pastorate  of  six  years,  on  account  of  failing 
health,  he  asked  Presbytery  to  release  him  from  his  charge,  which 
was  done  July  14,  1807.  He  continued  in  the  Presbytery  for  five 
or  six  years,  preaching  in  various  churches  as  stated  supply.  One  of 
these  years,  1810,  he  supplied  the  churches  of  Union  and  Slate  Lick. 
His  membership  being  transferred  from  the  Presbytery  of  Erie  to 
that  of  Redstone,  he  received  and  accepted  a  call  from  the  church 
of  Salem,  Westmoreland  county.  Pa.,  and  was  installed  as  pastor 
the  second  Tuesday  of  August,  1813.  From  this  charge  he  was 
released  October  20,  1819.  In  November,  1821,  he  removed  with 
his  family  to  what  is  now  Ashland  county,  Ohio,  and  there  became 
connected  with  the  Presbytery  of  Richland.  For  about  four  years 
he  served  the  church  of  Hopeful,  afterwards  Ashland,  as  pastor. 
He  then  became   the  pastor  of  Bucyrus,  Crawford  county,  Ohio. 


350  HISTORY    OF    THE 


Here  he  continued  to  labor  many  years,  and  with  great  success. 
After  retiring  from  this  field,  he  never  again  became  a  pastor,  but, 
residing  in  Leesville,  Ohio,  he  preaclied  with  considerable  regu- 
larity in  various  vacant  churches  and  mission  points,  as  long  as  he 
lived.  He  died  February  9,  1842,  in  the  seventy-first  year  of  his 
age,  and  tiie  forty-first  of  his  ministry.  His  life  is  said  to  have 
been  one  of  great  labor  and  usefulness. 

J.     Rev.  yohn  Redick.     See  history  of  Slate  Lick. 

4.  Rev.  George  Cairfis.  Mr.  Cairns  was  born  in  Ireland  in 
1817.  He  graduated  from  Jefferson  College  in  1846,  and  from  the 
Western  Theological  Seminary  in  1849;  was  licensed  in  1849,  and 
ordained  in  1850  by  the  Presbytery  of  Allegheny;  pastor  at 
Buffalo  church  in  same  Presbytery,  1850-56;  of  Union,  1850-53; 
supply  at  Glade  Run  and  Clinton,  1853-56;  Princeville,  111.,  1857; 
pastor.  Prospect,  111.,  1857;  in  1852,  was  married  to  Miss  Elizabeth 
A.  Templeton,  of  Union  church.  He  died  at  Princeville,  111., 
June  25,  1868. 

5.  Rev.  y.  C.  Shearer.  Of  Mr.  Shearer  no  detailed  infor- 
mation has  been  secured.  "He  was  much  esteemed  while  he  minis- 
tered to  this  church  that  would  gladly  have  retained  him  as  pastor. 
His  death  occurred  shortlv  after  he  ceased  his  labors  here. 

NOTICES    OF    MINISTERS    STILL    LIVING. 

/.  Rev.  y.  jF.  Boyd.  Mr.  Boyd  is  a  native  of  Allegheny 
county.  Pa.  Received  his  preparatory  training  at  Butler  Academy. 
Entered  Washington  College,  Pa.,  in  1846,  and  was  graduated, 
September  26,  1849.  Spent  three  years  at  Western  Theological 
Seminary.  Was  licensed  to  preach  the  gospel  by  Presbytery  of 
Allegheny  (now  Butler),  April  12,  1853.  Went  at  once  as  a 
Home  Missionary  to  Muncie,  Ind.,  and  was  ordained  by  the  Pres- 
bytery of  Muncie,  June  8,  1854.  At  first  he  had  charge  of  three 
churches,  afterwards  four  and  a  fifth  regular  preaching  point, 
taking  in  a  field  about  twenty-five  miles  long  and  twelve  miles 
wide.  Being  driven  from  this  field  by  malaria,  he  returned 
to  Pennsylvania,  and  as  soon  as  able  to  preach  he  took  charge 
of  the  church  of  Union,  Allegheny  Presbytery  (now  Kittan- 
ning),  as  stated    supply,  continuing    in    this   capacity  six   months. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  351 

Next  he  became  pastor  of  Harrisville  aud  Amity  churches  in 
Butler  county,  where  he  continued  ten  years.  Then  he  was  called 
to  the  churches  of  Bull  Ci*eek  and  Natrona  in  Allegheny  county, 
and  from  there  was  called  to  Cross  Creek  and  Pleasant  Hill 
churches  in  Steubenville  Presbytery,  Ohio,  continuing-  pastor  of  the 
two  churches  for  several  years  and  of  Cross  Creek  church  ten 
years  in  all.  Since  his  release  from  Cross  Creek  church,  about 
1880,  he  has  been  preaching  almost  constantly  as  a  supply  in  his 
own  and  other  Presbyteries. 

2.  Rev.  David  Hall^  D.  D.  Rev.  David  Hall  was  born  near 
Slate  Lick,  Armstrong  county.  Pa.,  December  13,  1828.  Was 
graduated  from  Jefferson  College,  1850;  from  Western  Theologi- 
cal Seminary,  1854;  licensed  by  Allegheny  Presbytery,  June  20, 
1854.  Was  ordained  by  the  same  Presbytery,  November  5,  1856. 
For  about  a  year  was  co-pastor  in  the  first  church  of  Columbus, 
Ohio.  Was  installed  pastor  of  Union  and  Brady's  Bend  churches, 
July  20,  1856;  released  from  this  charge,  November,  1866;  pastor 
at  Mansfield,  Ohio,  1867  to  1874;  since  1874,  has  been  pastor  of 
Indiana  church.  Washington  and  Jefferson  conferred  upon  him 
the  degree  of  D.  D.     See  also  history  of  Indiana. 

3.  Rev.  y.  M.  Jones.  Mr.  Jones  was  born  near  Congruity 
church,  Westmoreland  county,  Pa.,  June  3,  1821;  entered  that 
church  on  profession  of  faith,  Februar}'^,  1838;  was  a  student  in 
Greensburg  Academy,  Pa,,  in  the  summer  of  1844,  afterwards  in 
Edinburg  Academy,  Ohio;  spent  from  November,  1848,  to  Octo- 
ber, 1849,  at  Elder's  Ridge  Academy,  and  entered  Washington 
College  in  1849,  and  was  graduated  in  1851;  taught  for  some  time 
in  Glade  Run  Academy,  Armstrong  county.  Pa.;  in  the  fall  of 
1853,  entered  the  Western  Theological  Seminary,  and  was 
graduated  in  1855,  having  studied  one  year  privately  under  Rev. 
C.  Forbes.  He  was  licensed  to  preach  by  the  Presbytery  of  Blairs- 
ville,  January  10,  1855,  and  ordained  by  Presbytery  of  Cedar,  June 
25,  1857  ;  labored  in  Iowa,  as  a  Home  Missionary,  from  June,  1855, 
to  October,  1861;  was  Principal  of  Glade  Run  Academy  from 
November,  1861,  to  July,  1868,  and  at  the  same  time  pastor  of 
Smicksburg  church,  and  part  of  the  time  stated  supply  of  Plum- 
ville  church.  July  1,  1868,  he  was  installed  pastor  of  Union,  and 
'Continued  in  this  capacity  until   October  1,  1873.     From   October, 


352  HISTORY    OF    TifE 


1873,  to  May,  1887,  he  was  pastor  of  Pine  Run  church.  Presby- 
tery of  Blairsville.  He  is  now  pastor  of  the  Cross  Roads  church 
in  same  Presbytery. 

4.  Rev.  W.  y.  Wilson.  Mr.  Wilson,  whose  parents  came 
from  the  north  of  Ireland  in  the  year  1844,  was  born  at  Fruits- 
burg,  Clarion  county,  Pa.,  November  13,  1844.  In  the  spring  of 
1852,  he  removed  with  his  parents  to  Richardsville,  Jefferson 
county.  Pa.  Having  spent  nearly  two  years  in  the  army,  in  Sep- 
tember, 1865,  he  entered  Westminister  College,  at  New  Wilming- 
ton, Pa.  Early  in  his  course,  he  left  college  to  engage  in  the  fall 
of  1869,  to  teach  school  at  Richardsville,  where  be  remained  a 
year.  After  this,  he  entered  Iron  City  Commercial  College,  at 
Pittsburgh,  Pa.  In  the  spring  of  1871,  he  opened  a  select  school 
at  New  Bethlehem,  Pa.,  where  he  remained  one  year.  In  Septem- 
ber, 1872,  he  reentered  college  and  was  graduated,  June,  1873. 
The  following  September,  he  entered  the  Western  Theological 
Seminary  and  was  graduated  April  20,  1876.  He  was  licensed  to 
preach  by  the  Presbytery  of  Shenango,  April,  1875.  June  14, 
1876,  he  was  ordained  by  the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning  and 
installed  pastor  of  Union  and  Midway  churches.  In  October, 
1879,  he  was  released  from  this  charge,  and  removed  to  Malvern, 
Iowa,  and  there  preached  as  stated  supply  for  a  year.  In  the  fall 
of  1880,  he  removed  to  Callensburg,  Clarion  county.  Pa.,  and 
there  still  remains  as  pastor  of  Callensburg  and  Concord  churches 
and  stated  supply  of  Bethesda. 

Rev.  Hezekiah  Magill.  Mr.  Magill  was  born  near  Steuben- 
ville,  Jefferson  county,  Ohio,  September  12,  1842.  Prepared  for 
college  at  Bethel  Academy,  Allegheny  county.  Pa.;  was  graduated 
from  Jefferson  College,  Pa.,  1864,  and  from  Western  Theological 
Seminary,  1867;  licensed  to  preach  by  Steubenville  Presbytery, 
April,  1866;  ordained  by  Presbytery  of  Saltsburg,  May  9,1867, 
and  installed  pastor  of  Concord  and  IMahoning  churches,  October 
1,  1872;  was  transferred  from  that  charge  to  Apollo,  and  the 
same  month  v/as  installed  pastor.  September  4,  1879,  he  was 
released  from  this  charge  and  became  stated  supply  of  Union  and 
Midway  churches,  serving  them  in  this  capacity  until  January, 
1881,  when,  having  received  and  accepted  calls,  he  was  installed 
over    these   churches.     His   labors   here  continued  until   October, 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  353 

1884.  Thence  he  removed  to  Prairie  City,  111.,  November  1, 
1884,  and  from  here  he  removed,  on  account  of  sickness  in  his 
family,  to  Council  Grove,  Kansas,  November,  1885,  where  he  still 
continues  to  labor  with  marked  success. 

6.     Rev.  S.  A.   Hughes.     For   notice   see    history    of  Parker 
City. 


45 


854  HISTORY    OF    THE 


WASHINGTON. 


BY    REV.    A.    T.    BELL. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


In  1872  a  few  of  the  citizens  of  Washington  township,  Indiana 
county,  Pa.,  agreed  to  erect  a  building  for  the  public  worship  of 
God.  Inasmuch  as  the  association  contained  adherents  to  various 
branches  of  the  Christian  church,  the  house  was  to  be  open  to  the 
use  of  all  Chrislian  denominations.  To  complete  the  project  some 
contributed  money,  some  gave  building  material,  and  others  labored 
at  the  building.  The  house  was  soon  completed.  It  was  30  by  30 
feet,  of  hewn  logs,  "  shingle  roof  " — then  a  distinguishing  feature — 
furnished  with  "  plain  seats,"  and  was  named  "Washington  Church." 

The  lot  of  ground  containing  about  fifteen  acres,  upon  which 
this  church  was  erected,  two  miles  west  from  the  village  of  Kellys- 
burg  (Home  P.  ().,)  had  been  donated  by  Mr.  William  Patter- 
son for  church  and  school  purposes,  and  so  deeded  without  any 
restrictions.  The  nearest  Presbyterian  churches  were  Indiana  and 
Gilgal,  then  under  the  care  of  Rev.  John  Reed. 

The  first  stated  supply  of  Washington  was  Rev.  Nicholas  G. 
Sharrats,  then  pastor  of  the  Lutheran  Church,  Indiana.  He  .va> 
engaged  to  preach  during  the  year  1829,  one  sermon  each  fourth 
Sabbath  afternoon.  The  next  year  Rev.  David  Barclay,  Presby- 
terian, was  engaged  for  each  fourth  .Sabbath  for  one  year.  In  the 
autumn  of  this  year  the  congregation  appointed  Mr.  Joseph  Diven 
to  present  before  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville  a  petition  for  the 
organization  of  a  Presbyterian  Church.  The  Presbytery  granted 
the  request,  and  apjjointed  Rev.  John  H.  Kirkpatrick  to  effect  the 
organization,  who  accordingly  convened  the  Washington  society  in 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTAXNING.  855 


the  spring  time  of  1831,  and  organized  Washington  Presl^yterian 
Church.  At  the  organization  Messrs.  Joseph  Diven,  John  McGara 
and  Abraham  Moore,  Jr.,  were  elected  elders.  Mr.  Diven  having 
served  in  the  office  at  Glade  Run  was  installed,  Messrs.  McGara 
and  Moore  were  ordained  and  installed.  The  roll  of  members  at 
the  organization  cannot  be  produced. 

Soon  after  the  organization  Rev.  David  Barclay  moderated  a 
congregational  meeting,  at  which  a  call  for  one-half  of  the  minis- 
teral  labors  of  Rev.  John  H.  Kirkpatrick,  was  made  out.  Elder 
Joseph  Diven  was  chosen  to  lay  the  same  before  the  Presby- 
tery. The  call  having  been  placed  in  the  hands  of  Mr. 
Kirkpatrick,  was  by  him  accepted  on  the  condition  that  the 
time  be  changed  from  one-half  to  one-third  for  the  first  year, 
and  arrangements  were  made  for  his  installation.  At  the 
installation  Rev.  D.  Lewis  preached  the  sermon,  Rev.  John  Reed 
delivered  the  charge  to  the  pastor,  and  Rev.  Elisha  D.  Barrett  that 
to  the  congregation. 

The  sacrament  of  the  Lord's  Supper  was  first  administered  here 
in  April,  1832,  Up  to  this  time  forty-four  members  had  been 
received,  twentj'-three  by  letter  and  twenty-one  by  profession  of 
faith.  Soon  after  this  Messrs,  Christopher  McEwen,  John 
Shields  and  Samuel  Lewis  were  elected,  ordained  and  installed 
eiders. 

In  1884  a  second  church  building  was  erected  on  ground  a  short 
distance  east  of  the  present  site,  donated  by  Mr,  Godfrey  Lightcap. 
This  was  a  frame  building  40  by  40  feet,  and  cost  about  $1,000. 

In  1848,  Rev.  John  H,  Kii'kpatrick  was  released  from  the 
pastoral  care  of  this  church.  In  1850  the  pulpit  was  supplied  by 
Presbyterial  appointments.  This  same  year  Messrs,  Jesse  Marlin 
and  Robert  Allison  were  elected,  ordained  and  installed  elders. 

April  20,  1852,  Rev.  S.  P.  Bollman  was  installed  pastor  for 
one-half  time.  Rev.  C.  Forbes  preaching-  the  sermon,  Re\'.  A. 
Donaldson  charging  the  pastor,  and  Rev.  D.  Lewis  the  people. 
After  serving  the  congregation  for  fifteen  months.  Rev.  S.  P. 
Bollman  was  released  from  the  pastorate  on  account  of  failino- 
health,  yet  continued  occasionally  to  supply-  the  pulpit. 

September  1,  1857,  Rev.  William  G.  Shand  was  installed  pas- 
tor for  one-half  time,  the  other  half  being  given  to  Centre,  whicli 
pastorate  continued  for  but  little  more  than  one  vear  or  to  October 


3i>6  HISTORY    OF    THE 


<),  1858.  Then  the  congregation  had  to  depend  on  occasional  t.up- 
plies  till  1860,  when  Rev.  D.  D.  Christy  supplied  the  church  for  a 
time,  and  having  accepted  calls  from  this  church  and  Centre,  he  was 
installed  July  8d  of  that  year.  His  pastorate  continued  to  May  4, 
1868,  when  he  was  released  from  the  charge.  During  the  three 
years  following  the  church  was  without  a  pastor,  Rev.  S.  P.  Boll- 
man,  however,  serving  as  stated  supply  for  six  months  in  1864,  and 
for  three  months  in  1865. 

On  August  21,  1865,  Rev.  S.  P.  Boilman,  being  then  pastor  at 
Centre,  was  installed  pastor  of  this  church  for  one-half  time  by  a 
committee  consisting  of  Revs.  John  Caruthers,  W.  F.  Morgan  and 
Andrew  McElwain.  This  pastoral  relation  was  dissolved  April  12, 
1870.  Mr.  T.  B.  Anderson,  a  student  of  theology  in  the  Western 
Theological  Seminary  preached  one  sermon  each  Sabbath  during 
the  summer  of  J  871.  The  following  summer  the  Presbytery  sent 
Mr.  E.  G.  McKinley  another  student  of  the  Western  Theological 
Seminary  to  supply  the  pulpit  for  five  months. 

Having  decided  to  build  a  new  house  of  worship  the  congrega- 
tion in  the  fall  of  1871  appointed  Messrs.  John  Prothero,  Solomon 
Lightcap,  Joseph  M.  Bell,  J.  M.  McLaughlin  and  William 
Wallace  a  building  committee.  The  ground  was  purchased  from 
J.  M.  and  Oberlin  McLaughlin  a  few  feet  southwest  from  the  old 
building,  and  the  house  was  built  thereon  in  the  summer  of  1872. 
This  building  is  also  a  frame  one,  having  a  main  auditorium  40  by 
57  by  18  feet,  a  vestibule  6  by  40  feet,  and  a  lecture  room  in  the 
half  basement  40  by  about  30  feet.  Its  cost  when  completed  and 
furnished  was  $4,000.  The  church  was  formally  dedicated  to  the 
worship  of  God,  June  1,  1873.  In  this  service  the  Scripture  was 
read  by  Rev.  George  W.  Mechlin,  who  also  preached  the  sermon, 
and  the  dedicatory  prayer  was  ofTered  by  Rev.  Carl  Moore. 

Commencing  in  the  fall  of  1873,  Rev.  Carl  Moore  preached 
one  sermon  every  two  weeks  till  the  following  spring.  At  the 
spring  meeting  of  the  Kittanning  Presbytery,  April  7,  1874,  a  call 
was  presented  for  one-half  the  ministerial  services  of  Rev.  Carl 
Moore.  It  was  placed  in  his  hands,  and  by  him  accepted,  and 
arrangements  made  for  his  installation,  June  6,  1874,  at  which  time 
the  installation  was  effected,  when  the  sermon  was  preached  by 
Rev.  D.  Hall,  D.    D.,  the  charge  to  the   pastor  was  delivered  by 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  357 

Rev.  A.  T.  Bell,  and  the  charge  to  the  congregation  by  Rev. 
Andrew  Virtue.     This  pastorate  continued  till  June  27,  1877. 

From  July  1st  of  1877,  Rev.  C  C.  B.  Duncan  supplied  the 
pulpit  statedly  for  one-half  time  for  one  year.  In  the  mean  time  a 
call  w^as  placed  in  his  hands  to  become  pastor  of  this  church  in  con- 
nection with  Plumville,  and  was  by  him  declined  at  a  meeting  of 
the  Presbytery,  July  10,  1878. 

On  January  2,  1879,  Rev.  A.  T.  Bell,  then  pastor  at  Rayne, 
was  installed  for  one-half  time.  Revs.  C.  Moore,  D.  H.  Sloan  and 
H.  !N[agill  taking  part  in  the  services.  On  June  6,  1883,  the  call 
was  so  modified  as  to  secure  the  entire  time  of  the  pastor. 

The  church  edifice  was  repainted,  frescoed  and  carpeted  during 
the  summer  of  1884,  at  a  cost  of  $700.  Of  the  sons  of  Washington 
church  but  one  J.  Marshall  Shields  has  entered  the  ministry.  He 
was  licensed  by  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville,  April  11,  1854,  and 
ordained,  August  29,  1855,  by  the  Presbytery  of  Erie.  He  was 
pastor  successively  of  Georgetown,  Fairfield,  Bridgewater,  Mill- 
vale,  Pa.,  and  Orville,  O.  He  died,  November,  1887.  Mr. 
George  B.  Diven,  a  candidate  for  the  ministry,  had  reached  the 
junior  year  a:  Washington  and  Jefferson  College,  when  he  was 
stricken  down  with  typhoid  fever,  and  died  November  4,  1884. 
Robert  Joseph  Diven,  recommended  by  the  session  April  11,  ]886, 
was  taken  under  care  of  the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning,  April  14, 
1886,  as  a  candidate  for  the  gospel  ministry. 

The  church  has  been  served  in  the  eldership  by  Joseph  Diven, 
Robert  Allison,  Abraham  Moore,  Jr.,  Peter  S.  Lewis,  John 
McGara,  John  Shields,  Alexander  Blue,  Samuel  Lewis,  Jesse 
Marlin,  Christopher  McEwen,  Patrick  Lydick. 

The  present  session,  March,  1888,  consists  of  H.  K.  Shields, 
William  Wallace,  W.  H.  Lydick,  Josiah  Kooser,  S.  C.  Lewis, 
Alexander  Stewart. 

The  following  have  served  in  the  office  of  deacon :  John  Bell, 
Madison  McLaughlin,  Patrick  Lydick,  John  K.  McElhose,  Peter 
McGara,  John  Gordon,  Henry  K.  Shields,  Samuel  McQuilkin,  W. 
J.  Buchanon,  J.  W.  Shields,  David  Anderson,  Alexander  Blue, 
Jerry  Peterman,  Wilson  R.  Wallace,  Andrew  Harmon,  S.  C. 
Lewis.  * 

The  Sabbath  School  has  been  superintended  by  Samuel  Lewis, 
Wilson    R.    Wallace,  John    Prothero,    Matthew    Baird,    Wallace 


858  HISTORV    OF    THE 


Diven,  William  H.  Lydick.  The  present  vSuperinteiuk-nt  is  John 
Calvin  Shannon.  Since  1884  there  has  been  an  afternoon  session 
of  the  Sabbath  School  held  in  the  village  of  Kellysburg,  superin- 
tended by  John  K.  McElhose  and  Samuel  McQuilkin. 

The  years  in  w^hich  there  were  the  largest  accessions  to  the 
church  are  .1868,  when  twenty-nine  were  received,  1877,  when 
forty-five  were  added,  and  1885,  when  thirty-four  were  added.  At 
the  present  writing,  March,  1888,  a  very  general  work  of  grace  is 
in  progress,  by  which  the  membership  of  the  church  is  revived  and 
thirty-seven  persons  have  publicly  professed  their  faith  in  the  Lord 
Jesus  Christ. 


PRESRYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  359 


WEST  GLADE  RUN. 


TTT  TTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY    REV.    A.    J.    GREGG. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTm 


ORGANIZATION. 


At  the  meeting  of  the  Presbytery  of  Allegheny  at  Portersville, 
October  21,  1845,  Rev.  Mr.  Stark  was  appointed  to  organize  the 
Presbyterian  Church  of  West  Glade  Run.  To  assist  Mr.  Stark  in 
receiving  members  three  ruling  elders  were  appointed,  namely : 
John  Patton,  John  Craig  and  William  Cratty,  all  of  Union  church. 
These  elders,  with  Rev.  Mr.  Stark  as  moderator,  constituted  a  ses- 
sion, which  held  its  first  meeting  at  the  house  of  John  Reed,  on 
Saturday,  December  27,  1845.  It  was  begun  with  prayer  and 
singing  pare  of  the  65th  psalm,  Scottish  version.  A  good  number 
of  persons  were  present,  and  after  some  religious  exercises,  the 
following  persons  were  admitted  on  examination:  Jonathan 
Whitesell,  Isaac  Wible  and  Polly,  his  wife,  John  N.  Whitesell  and 
Susan,  his  wife,  Elizabeth  Bowser,  John  Bonner  and  Philip 
Leighley.  These  eight  persons  were  the  original  members,  of 
whom  three  are  still  living  at  this  writing,  about  forty-one  years 
after  their  admission  to  the  church. 

The  first  election  of  elders  was  held  February  11,  1847,  in  the 
church,  and  resulted  in  the  choice  of  John  P.  Huston  and  Jonathan 
Whitesell,  the  exact  date  of  whose  ordination  is  not  recorded.  It 
was  however  either  the  second  or  third  Saturday  of  March,  1847. 
A  sermon  was  preached  by  Rev.  Mr.  Stark,  and  after  the  sermon 
on  the  nature,  design  and  use  of  the  eldership,  they  were  ordained, 
and  thus  the  church  was  duly  organized. 


860  HISTORY    OF    THE 


CHURCH    BUILDINGS. 

The  First  Church  Building  was  erected  in  the  summer  of 
1846.  It  was  a  small  frame  building,  neatly  painted,  capable  of 
seating  about  one  hundred  and  fifty  persons,  and  costing  about  four 
hundred  and  fifty  dollars.  It  stood  about  fifty  yards  from  the  log 
school  house,  then  standing.  The  contractor,  D.  J.  Reed  collected 
the  money  from  the  subscribers  himself. 

The  Second  Church  Building — At  a  congregational  meeting 
held  August,  1868,  it  was  resolved  not  to  remodel  but  to  re-build  as 
soon  as  possible.  The  contract  was  given  to  J.  C.  Morrison  for 
building  a  house  54  feet  long,  36  feet  wide  and  18  feet  high,  with 
two  aisles  and  four  rows  of  seats.  There  was  also  to  be  a  vestibule 
and  two  small  rooms,  one  on  each  side  of  the  vestibule,  and  also  a 
gallery  without  seats,  a  pulpit  and  platforms.  The  cost  was  about 
twenty  hundred  and  fifty  dollars.  The  new  church  was  erected  in 
the  summer  of  1870,  and  dedicated,  February  2,  1871,  on  which 
occasion  the  Rev.  J.  M.  Jones  being  present  read  Solomon's  prayer, 
and  Rev.  T.  D.  Ewing,  of  Kittanning,  preached  a  sermon  from 
psalm  87:  3,  "  Glorious  things  are  spoken  of  thee,  O,  city  of  God," 
the  dedicatory  prayer  being  offered  by  the  pastor.  I'he  church 
was  dedicated  free  of  debt. 

LIST    OF    STATED    SUPPLIES    AND    PASTORS. 

Rev.  John  Stark,  stated  supply  from  1847  to  1852;  Rev.  Geo. 
Cairnes,  stated  supply  from  April  1854  to  1857 ;  Rev.  John  Smalley, 
stated  supply  from  1857  to  1858;  Mr.  J.  S.  Boyd,  a  licentiate,  stated 
supply,  winter  of  1858-59;  Rev.  John  V.  Miller,  pastor,  summer  of 
1859  to  October,  1864;  Rev.  A.  S.  Thompson,  pastor  from  Nov- 
ember 21,  1867  to  December  4,  1878;  Rev.  J.  E.  Leyda,  pastor 
from  May  27,  1880  to  October  16,  1883;  Rev.  A.J.  Gregg,  pastor 
from  April  29,  1885  to  present  date,  January  23,  1888. 

BIOGRAPHICAL    SKETCHES     OF      STATED    SUPPLIES    AND     PASTORS. 

Rev.  John  Stark — The  Rev.  John  Stark  was  born  near  Eliza- 
bethtown,  Allegheny  county.  Pa.,  December  31,  1794.  He  was 
educated  at  Jefferson  College  and  the  Western  University  of  Pitts- 
burgh, graduating  at  the  latter  institution,  June  24,  1824,  under  the 
Presidency   of  Rev.  Dr.    Bruce.       He  was   licensed   to  preach  the 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  361 


gospel  by  the  Presbytery  of  Monongahela  in  connection  with  the 
Associate  Reformed  Church,  and  did  liis  first  ministerial  preaching 
in  Blairsville  and  Armagh  in  1827  and  1828.  At  a  meeting  of  the 
Presbytery  of  Blairsville  at  Plum  Creek,  June  17,  1844,  he  was 
received  into  the  Presbyterian  Church,  and  at  the  same  time 
ordained  as  an  evangelist.  He  was  an  able  preacher  of  the  word. 
He  died  at  his  residence  near  Whitesburg,  Armstrong  county.  Pa., 
July  12,  1869. 

Rev.  George  Cairnes — Mr.  Cairnes  labored  with  great  accept- 
ance among  the  people  of  Glade  Run.  His  sermons  and  prayers 
were  largely  for  the  unconverted.  There  was  during  his  labors  a 
gradual  increase  in  the  membership  of  the  church.  For  fuller  notice 
see  history  of  Union  Church. 

Rev.  JoTui  V.  Miller — Mr.  Miller  was  born  in  Ohio  county, 
West  Virginia,  July  11,  1816,  and  commenced  his  preparatory 
studies  under  Dr.  McClusky,  when  about  fourteen  years  of  age. 
These  completed  he  entered  Washington  College,  where  he 
graduated,  and  afterwards  studied  theology  under  Dr.  McClusky. 
He  was  licensed  by  the  Presbytery  of  Washington,  and  spent  some 
time  supplying  vacant  churches  in  Ohio.  He  was  received  by  the 
Presbytery  of  Allegheny,  (now  Butler)  June  23,  1851,  and  had  a 
charge  in  the  northern  part  of  Butler  county  for  seven  years  prior 
to  his  installation  at  Glade  Run.  He  was  a  fine  speaker  and  a  man 
of  extraordinary  memory.  He  esteemed  it  a  high  privilege  to 
preach  the  gospel,  and  was  never  satisfied  when  not  engaged  in  the 
good  work.  He  was  the  first  regularly  installed  pastor  of  Glade 
Run,  and  labored  in  that  capacity  from  the  summer  of  1859  until 
October,  1864.  He  died  ot  pleurisy,  near  Tarentum,  Pa.,  when 
about  fifty-three  years  of  age. 

Rev.  A.  S.  Thoi7i'pson — Mr.  Thompson  was  born  April  28, 
1834,  near  Newville,  Cumberland  county.  Pa.  His  parents  and 
grandparents  were  connected  with  the  Seceder  Church,  and  wor- 
shiped in  the  Big  Spring  Church,  in  which  his  grandfather,  Alex- 
ander Thompson,  was  ruling  elder  for  many  years,  a  man  noted 
for  his  piety  and  zeal  in  the  service  of  the  Master.  Mr.  Thompson's 
father  ^ied  in  the  State  of  Illinois,  to  which  they  had  removed  in 
the  year  1846,  when  the  subject  of  this  sketch  was  about  twelve 
years  of  age.  He  made  profession  of  his  faith  in  Christ  when  he 
was  about  sixteen  years  of  age  in  the  Big  Spring  Church  in  which 

46 


862  HISTORY    OF    T>IE 


in  infancy  he  had  been  baptized.  He  received  his  academical  edu- 
cation at  15ig  Spring  Academy,  entered  Jefferson  College  in  the  tall 
<jf  1861 ;  graduated  in  1864.  While  in  college  he  severed  his  rela- 
tions v^ith  the  U.  P.  and  connected  with  the  Presbyterian  Church; 
went  to  Princeton  ta  study  theology  in  1864,  where  he  remained 
two  years;  came  to  Allegheny  to  spend  his  third  year  in  the  West- 
ern Theological  vSeminary,  where  he  graduated  in  1867;  licensed  by 
the  Presbytery  of  New  Brunswick  at  Ilightstown,  April  18,  1866; 
received  by  the  Presbytery  of  Allegheny  at  Freeport,  October  22, 
1867;  ordained  and  installed  over  the  churches  of  West  Glade  Run 
and  Worthington  by  the  same  Presbytery  at  its  meeting  at  Worth- 
ington,  November  20,  1867.  Mr.  Thompson  was  a  man  of  deep 
piety,  and  his  scholarship  was  of  a  high  grade.  He  was  an  earnest 
preacher  of  the  word.  His  sermons  were  scriptural,  full  of  instruc- 
tion, )jlain,  l(jgic;il,  jjractical.  He  was  a  model  pastor.  His  great 
tenderness  of  heart  fitted  him  for  sympathizing  with  and  entering 
into  the  alHictions  and  sorrows  of  his  people.  He  soon  gained  the 
confidence  and  ardent  affection  of  every  family  in  his  pastoral 
charge,  and  retained  their  confidence  and  affection  till  his  death. 
His  v/as  a  successful  pastorate  as  there  was  a  constant  accession 
from  the  young  into  the  communion  of  the  church.  He  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Isabella  Dunlap,  of  Newville,  Pa.  Three 
children,  two  sons  and  a  daughter  were  born  to  them.  The  two 
sons  were  taken  by  the  Great  Shepherd,  one  before,  the  other  after 
their  father,  who  died  suddenly  from  valvular  disease  of  the  heart, 
December  4,  1878.  He  was  found  dead  about  8  p.  m.,  a  few  feet 
from  bis  own  door,  having  just  returned  from  visiting  in  the  con- 
gregation. 

J^cv.  y.  E.  Leyda — Mr.  Leyda  was  born  June  18,  1848,  near 
Dunningsville,  Washington  county.  Pa.;  received  his  academical 
tducation  at  Ilogue  Summit  Academy ;  entered  Washington  and 
Jefferson  College  in  the  autumn  of  1870;  graduated  June  6,  1874; 
entered  Western  Theological  Seminary  in  the  autumn  of  1874,  and 
graduated  April,  1877.  The  middle  year  of  his  seminary  course  he 
attended  the  Union  Theological  Seminary  of  New  York  City.  He 
was  licensed  by  the  Presbytery  of  Washington  at  Burgettstown, 
Pa.,  in  the  autumn  of  1879,  and  was  ordained  by  the  Presbyter^'  of 
Clarion   at   Perrv  church,  Jefferson  county.  Pa.,  in  the  autumn  of 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNTING.  363 

1877.     He  was  a  man  of  decided  temperance  principles.  He  is  now 
preaching  in  Ellsworth,  Kansas. 

RULING    ELDERS. 

Jonathan  Whitesell  was  elected  February  11,  1847.  ordained 
and  installed  the  second  or  third  Saturday  of  March,  1847,  and  died 
July  25,  1875.  John  P.  Huston,  elected,  ordained  and  installed  at 
the  same  time;  left  the  bounds  of  the  congregation  before  June  27, 
1852.  James  Noble  and  Samuel  Robinson  were  elected,  ordained 
and  installed,  June  2(3,  1852.  Mr.  Robinson  left  the  bound.-,  of  the 
congregation,  connecting  with  Slate  Lick  in  1864.  xvlr.  Noble  died, 
September,  1878. 

The  third  election  of  elders  occurred  in  1860,  resulting  in  the 
choice  of  George  Noble,  James  Monroe  and  John  N.  Whitesell. 
Messrs.  George  Noble  and  J.  N.  Whitesell  accepting,  were  ordained 
and  installed,  taking  seats  for  the  first  time  as  members  of  the  ses- 
sion, November  3,  1 860.  Mr.  Whitesell  moved  outside  the  bounds 
of  the  congregation  in  1864.  Mr.  Noble  is  still  acting  as  a  member 
of  the  session. 

The  fouith  election  occurred  May  4,  1868,  and  resulted  in  the 
choice  of  M.  B.  Colwell,  Robert  McKee,  John  Armstrong  and 
John  F.  Brown,  the  last  three  of  whom  accepted,  and  Friday, 
October  23,  1868,  was  appointed  for  their  ordination.  Mr.  John 
Armstrong  and  Mr.  John  F.  Brown  were  ordained  and  installed  on 
that  day.  Mr.  McKee  oeing  detained  at  home  on  account  of  sick- 
ness, was  not  ordained.  Mr.  John  Armstrong  died,  September  5, 
1886.     Mr.  Brown  is  still  acting  as  a  member  of  the  session. 

The  fifth  election  held  was  on  the  Monday  after  communion,  in 
the  spring  of  1881,  and  resulted  in  the  choice  of  James  A.  Thomp- 
son and  Jonathan  Sarver.  The  exact  date  of  their  ordination  can- 
not be  ascertained,  but  it  was  probably  in  July,  1881.  Their  names 
appear  for  the  first  time  at  a  meeting  of  the  session,  October  8, 
1881.     They  are  both  still  serving. 

Messrs.  Robert  Hindman  and  William  S.  Wylie  were  ordained 
and  installed,  June  11,  1887.     They  are  still  serving. 

SUPERINTENDENTS    OF    SABBATH    SCHOOL. 

These  have  been  as  follows,  as  near  as  can  be  ascertained:  Mr. 
Deemer,  (Baptist;)  John  F.  Brown,  John  Burford,  Rev.  A.  S. 
Thompson,  James  Noble,  William  Noble,  John  N.  Whitesell,  John 


364  HISTORY    OK    THE 


Armstrong,  George  Noble,  J.  F.  Cruikshank,  John  M.  Thompson, 
J.  C.  Burford,  James  A.  Thompson. 

A  Woman's  Foreign  Missionary  Society  was  organized,  Sep- 
tember 19,  1874. 

A  Woman's  Temperance  Union  was  organized,  May  9,  1886, 
by  Mrs.  Virginia  Peart,  President  of  the  County  W.  C.  T.  U. 

[The  above  sketch  was  mainly  copied  from  history  of  West 
Glade  Run,  prepared  by  elder  J.  F.  Brown,  and  published  by  the 
congregation  in  1887. — A.  J.  G.] 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  365 


WEST  LEBANON. 


BY    REV.    A.    DONALDSON,    D.    D. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


ORGANIZATION. 


In  the  winter  of  1853,  the  Presbytery  of  Bhiirsville  appointed 
the  Rev.  Messrs.  S.  P.  Bollman  and  A.  Donaldson,  with  elders 
Joseph  Diven  and  Joseph  McGeary,  to  divide  Elder's  Ridge  con- 
gregation  and  organize  about  one-third  of  it  into  a  separate  one  in 
the  village  of  West  Lebanon  and  by  its  name.  This  was  done 
March  10,  1853,  and  the  following  sixty-six  members  were 
enrolled:  Joseph  Harbison,  Esq.,  Rebekah  Harbison,  Jane  Harbi- 
son, Margaret  Harbison,  Francis  S.  Harbison,  Parmela  Harbison, 
Matthew  Harbison,  Mary  Harbison,  Martha  A.  Harbison,  Sarah 
Harbison,  Thomas  Cunningham,  Mary  Cunningham,  Nancy  Cun- 
ningham, Catharine  Cunningham,  William  Cunningham,  Olivia 
Cunningham,  Robert  Cunningham,  Roxanna  Cunningham,  David 
Mears,  Margaret  Mears,  Robert  Mears,  Wm.  B.  Taylor,  Elizabeth 
M.  Taylor,  John  Reed,  Sr.,  John  Reed  Jr.,  Jane  Reed,  Jr.,  Mary 
J.  Reed,  Jesse  Reed,  Sarah  Reed,  Alex.  Fulton,  Catharine  Fulton, 
Keziah  Fulton,  Silas  Fulton,  Annie  Fulton,  Sarah  J.  Fulton, 
John  McAdoo,  John  Elwood,  Margaret  Elwood,  Wm.  Crook- 
shanks,  David  Blakely,  Sarah  Blakely,  Mary  Stuchell,  Samuel 
Gamble,  Ellen  Gamble,  Catharine  McGou^h,  Thomas  McGough, 
Mary  A.  Montgomery,  John  McLane,  Julia  McLane,  Baptist 
Scott,  John  W.  Smith,  Jane  Smith,  John  Shannon,  Mary  Shannon, 
Nancy  Lowry,  Joseph  Crusan,  Isabella  Crusan,  Martha  Crook- 
shanks,  Pauline  Miller,   Dr.  John   Edgar,  Elizabeth   Silvas,  Jane 


366  HISTORY    OF    THE 


Stewart,  Elizabeth  Cochran,  Joseph  Collins.  Rebekah  Collins.  Oi 
these  Joseph  Harbison,  E-sq.,  Silas  Fulton,  Matthew  Harbison  and 
John  Elwood  were  chosen  as  elders.  The  first  was  installed  and' 
the  rest  ordained   and  installed. 

GROirXDS. 

An  acre  of  ground  was  given  by  Joseph  Harbison,  Esq.  On  it 
a  low  brick  building,  fifty  by  fifty-five  feet  with  vaulted  ceiling,, 
was  erected  in  the  fall  of  1852,  at  a  cost  of  about  $1,400,  but  was 
never  formally  dedicated.  It  was  in  use  till  May  10,  1878,  when 
it  gave  place  to  a  neat  two-story  frame  structure,  sixty-five  by 
forty-four  feet,  on  nearly  the  same  ground.  It  is  neatly  frescoed,, 
has  stained  windows,  and,  without  debt,  was  dedicated,  December 
19,  1878,  Rev.  J.  J.  Francis,  preaching  the  sermon  and  the  pastor 
oflfering  the  prayer.  John  Oliver,  Esq.,  was  the  contractor  of  this 
also.  During  its  erection  the  congregation  worshiped  in  the 
Baptist  church. 

PASTOR. 

By  unanimous  agreement  Rev.  A.  Donaldson,  who  had  been 
their  pastor  at  Eider's  Ridge,  was  called  to  that  ofKce  here  for  one- 
third  of  his  time  and  at  one-third  of  the  old  $500  salary,  and  was 
duly  installed.  May  16,  1853.  Rev.  David  Harbison  preached  the 
sermon.  Rev.  Samuel  Swan,  charged  the  pastor,  and  Rev.  A. 
McElwain  the  people.  Corresponding  changes  were  afterwards 
made  simultaneously  with  those  at  Elder's  Ridge.  The  pastoral 
relation  continues  unbroken  till  the  present  time,  but  its  termination 
is  anticipated  at  the  same  time   with  that  of  Elder's  Ridge. 

[The  congregation  having  declined  to  accept  the  offered  resignation  of 
their  pastor  at  a  meeting  of  Presbytery,  held  April  11,  1888,  the  relation 
still  continues.] — Ed. 

RULING    ELDERS. 

Of  the  original  number,  Esq.  Harbison  died  December  15? 
1867.  Matthew  Harbison,  having  been  clerk  of  session  while  he 
lived,  died  May  2,  1858.  Silas  Fulton  died  January  31,  1884. 
John  Elwood  held  the  clerk's  oflSce  from  1863  till  1874,  when  he 
was  dismissed  to  Blairsville.  John  Wherry,  from  Elder's  Ridge, 
was  installed,  September  29,  1856,  v^^as  clerk  of  session  till  1863, 
and  again  from  1874  till  1877.     He  represented  his  Presbytery  in 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  36*7 

the  General  Assembly  at  Pittsburg.  He  died  March  10,  1880. 
Jas.  Armstrong,  frotn  Cross  Roads,  Presbytery  of  Blairsville,  was 
installed  April  12,  1867,  and  died  September  ^,  1877.  Joseph 
Collins  and  ThomaN  Sharp,  Esq.,  were  ordained  and  installed 
April  6,  1860.  Mr.  Collins  was  dismissed  to  East  Union  in  the 
fall  of  1867.  Esq.  Sharp,  with  consent  of  session  ceased  to  act, 
May  20,  1876.  Alex.  Hazlett,  from  Clarksburg,  v/as  installed. 
May  6,  1864,  and  died,  September  18,  1867.  Geo.  W.  Collins,  W. 
T.  N.  Wallace  and  Robert  T.  Anderson,  from  Clarksburg,  were 
inducted  into  office,  June  14,  1874,  the  last  by  installation  and  the 
others  by  ordination  and  installation.  Mr.  Wallace  was  elected 
■clerk  of  session  in  1877.  These  three  with  the  pastor  constitute 
the  present  session. 

DEACONS. 

Originally  this  congregation,  like  that  of  Eldei"^s  Ridge,  had  no 
deacons,  but  on  March  4,  1860,  by  vote  of  the  congregation, 
Francis  S.  Harbison,  John  S.  Ewing,  Thomas  McGough,  John 
Fulton  and  Robert  Cunningham,  were  chosen,  ordained  and 
installed  in  that  office.  Robert  Cunningham  was  dismissed  to 
Unity,  Presbytery  of  Blairsville,  in  April,  1865,  John  Fulton, 
to  Indiana,  in  the  fall  of  1873.  Mr.  Ewing  d  ed.  Alex. 
Ham.  Fulton  and  Robert  S.  Townsend  were  ordained  and 
installed,  April  12,  1867.  Mr.  McGough  soon  after,  by  toleration 
of  the  Board,  ceased  to  act.  In  April,  1887,  Mr.  Townsend  was 
dismissed  to  Kansas  City,  Mo.,  and  Wm.  Couch  was  ardained  and 
installed,  and  continues  in  the  office.  Thus,  one  of  each  election, 
Hai-bison,  Fulton  and  Couch,  at  present  constitute  the  Board  and 
have  been  prompt,  efficient  and  successful  in  the  duties  of  their 
office,  having  the  salary  always  ready  at  the  proper  time* 

SABBATH    SCHOOL    AND    ITS    SUPERINTENDENTS. 

A  Sabbath  School  with  about  forty  scholars  and  five  teachers 
had  been  held  here  before  the  church  was  organized.  Now  it  has 
increased  to  about  125  pupils  and  fourteen  teachers,  being  attended 
by  old  and  young  of  both  sexes.  No  connected  record  has  been 
kept,  yet  the  following  persons  are  remembered  as  holding  the 
office  of  superintendent,  but  not  their  terms  of  service'  Josepli 
Harbison,  Esq.,  Matthew  Harbison,  John  McLane,  John   Wherry, 


868  HISTORY    OF    THE 


John  Elwood,  Alex.  Hazlett,  Francis  S.  Harbison,  James  Arm- 
strong, and  W.  T.  N.  Wallace,  the  present  incumbent,  who  has 
filled  that  office  well  for  over  nineteen  years. 

THE    PRAYER    MEETING. 

This  was  commenced  early  after  the  organization,  and  aid  was 
given  to  it  by  John  M.  Barnett,  John  M,  McElroy  and  John  C. 
Thorn,  students  of  theology.  Generally,  however,  the  elders  and 
members  of  the  church  carried  it  on  by  themselves,  the  leader  of 
each  meeting  appointing  his  successor.  It  has  rarely  been  inter- 
rupted and  only  for  brief  periods,  and  the  attendance  of  all  classes 
is  as  numerous  as  is  usually  seen  where  no  minister  leads  and 
lectures.  Moreover,  it  is  believed  that  in  few  congregations  of  the 
same  size  so  many  members  are  willing  to  take  a  leading  part  in 
prayer  and  in  conducting  the  exercises. 

OTHER    PASTORAL    WORK. 

Part  of  it  was  not  detailed  in  the  history  of  Elder's  Ridge, 
believing  that  his  entire  work  might  best  be  summed  together  here 
and  now,  when  less  than  four  months  would  complete  fifty  favored 
years  of  ministerial  labors.  But  whether,  or  not,  this  fraction  of 
time  shall  be  added  is  known  only  to  him  "  whose  power  holdeth 
our  soul  in  life."  The  summary  then  is  this:  He  has  conducted 
sixty-four  district  examinations,  585  family  visitations  with  cate- 
chizing and  prayer,  401  communions;  admitted  to  the  church  on 
profession  of  faith,  1,704;  sermons  preached,  6,755;  prayer  meet- 
ings held,  2,537;  other  addresses,  313;  visits  to  the  afflicted,  2,508; 
officiated  at  funerals,  425;  baptisms,  adults,  112;  infants,  1,108; 
marriages  performed,  321.     May  God's  blessing  crown  it  all! 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  869 


WORTHINGTON. 


BY    REV.    A.    J.    GREGG. 


ORGANIZATION. 

The  church  was  organized  as  the  "  Free  Presbyterian  Church 
of  Buffalo,"  on  the  12th  day  of  March,  1850,  by  the  Free  Presby- 
tery of  Mahoning  and  consisted  of  the  following  persons,  being 
members  of  the  O.  S.  Presbyterian  churches  of  Union,  Slate  Lick 
and  West  Glade  Run: 

John  Craig,  Sr.,  Mary  Craig,  Joseph  T.  McCurdy,  Nancy 
McCurdy,  David  Shields,  Mary  Shields,  John  Shields,  James 
Stephenson,  Margaret  Stephenson,  William  J.  McCully,  Martha 
McCully,  Mary  Craig,  Sr.,  Margaret  Craig,  Mary  Craig,  Jr., 
John  Stephenson,  Margaret  M.  Stephenson,  Jared  M.  Irwin,  Mary 
A.  Irwin,  John  Craig,  Jr.,  Eliza  Craig. 

A  lot  containing  one  acre  was  procured  by  purchase  on  which 
a  house  of  worship  was  erected  in  1851.  The  original  building  is 
still  standing,  and  in  use  for  public  worship.  It  is  situated  on  the 
northern  side  of  the  village  on  elevated  ground  near  a  grove.  The 
location  in  summer  time  is  very  pleasant.  The  building  is  a  plain 
rectangular  frame,  37 1^  x  41  feet,  13  high,  cupola  30  feet  in  height; 
cost,  $772. 

STATED    SUPPLIES    AND    PASTORS. 

Rev.  George  McElhenny  was  stated  supply  from  March  12, 
1850,  until  1860.  Revs.  W.  J.  and  T.  I.  MofRt  supplied  the  pulpit 
from  1860  until  October  16,  1866,  when  the  Fi-ee  Presbyterian 
Church  of  Worthington  was  received  into  the  Presbyterian  Church, 

47 


870  mSTORY    OF    THE 


Presbytery  of  Allegheny,  at  Brady's  Bend.  From  October  16, 
until  the  spring  meeting  of  Presbytery,  the  church  was  supplied  by 
appointment  of  Presbytery. 

Mr.  A.  S.  Thompson,  a  licentiate  of  the  Presbytery  of  Carlisle, 
supplied  this  church  for  six  months.  A  call  was  then  made  out  for 
Mr.  Thompson,  which  being  accepted,  he  was  ordained  and 
installed,  November  20,  1867,  and  continued  to  serve  the  charge  as 
pastor  until  liis  death,  December  4,  1878. 

The  congregation  was  without  a  pastor  from  December  4, 
1878,  until  May  27,  1880,  when  Rev.  James  E.  Leyda  was  installed 
and  continued  to  serve  as  pastor  until  April  1,  1884,  at  which  time 
he  handeil  in  his  resignation,  which  was  accepted. 

Mr.  A.J.  Gregg,  a  licentiate  of  the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning, 
supplied  the  Presbyterian  churches  of  VVorthington  and  West 
Glade  Run  from  the  fall  of  1884  until  April  29,  1885,  at  which 
time  he  was  ordained  and  installed  pastor  of  these  two  congre- 
gations. 

BIOGRAPHICAL    NOTICES. 

The  Rev.  Geo.  McElhenny,  virho  served  this  congregation  as 
stated  supply  after  its  organization  was  born,  as  nearly  as  can  be 
ascertained,  about  1809.  His  father  lived  on  a  farm  near  Darling- 
ton, Beaver  county,  Pa.  Mr.  Geo.  McElhenny  was  a  farmer  in 
his  early  life.  He  received  his  academic  education  at  the  Darling- 
ton Academy.  He  received  his  theological  education  by  private 
instruction  inider  Rev.  Mr.  Bradford.  He  was  said  to  be  a  good 
scholar  and  had  the  reputation  of  being  an  able  preacher.  His 
manner  in  the  pulpit  was  earnest.  His  subject  matter  was  full  of 
deep  thought,  logical,  argumentative.  He  v/as  a  warm  advocate  of 
every  moral  reform.  He  was  stated  supply  of  this  church  for  ten 
years  after  its  organization.  After  the  war  was  over,  being  adverse 
to  secret  societies,  he  was  received  into  the  U.  P.  Church  in  which 
he  still  labors  as  a  minister.  He  has  no  regular  charge  at  present. 
He  makes  his  home  with  a  sister  on  the  old  homestead  near  Darl- 
ington, Pa, 

Rev.  A.  S.  Thompson  was  born  April  28, 1834,  near  Newville, 
Cumberland  county.  Pa,  While  he  was  quite  young  his  parents 
removed  from  Pennsvlvania  to  the  State  of  Indiana,  thence  to 
Illinois,  where  his  father  died  in   1846,  when   he   was  twelve  years 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTAXNING.  371 

old.  The  mother  and  family  returned  soon  after  the  father's  death, 
to  Cumberland  county,  Pa.,  and  from  this  time  he,  although  so 
young,  seemed  to  take  his  father's  place  in  providing  for  the 
family.  He  received  his  academic  education  at  Big  Spring 
Academy  under  the  tuition  of  Father  McCachran  and  Prof.  W. 
R.  Linn.  He  first  worked  in  the  summer  and  went  to  school  in 
the  winter,  and  as  soon  as  he  was  qualified  as  to  scholarship  he 
taught  school  in  the  winter  and  went  to  school  in  the  summer  until 
he  finished  his  academic  course.  For  fuller  notice  see  West  Glade 
Run. 

Rev.  James  E.  Leyda.  For  notice  of  Mr.  Leyda  see  West 
Glade  Run. 

Rev.  A.  J.  Gregg  was  born  at  Saltsburg,  Pa.,  September  10, 
1855.  His  collegiate  course  was  taken  at  Western  Reserve  Col- 
lege; his  theological  at  the  We:^tern  Theological  Seminary  whence 
he  graduated  in  1885.  He  was  licensed  by  the  Presbytery  of  Kit- 
tanning,  April  28,  1885,  and  ordained  by  the  same  Presbytery  at 
the  time  of  his  installation  in  his  present  charge. 

RULING    ELDERS. 

John  Craig  was  installed  March  12,  1850,  and  served  until  his 
death,  March  28,  1868. 

John  Shields  was  elected,  ordained  and  installed  Julv  6,  1850, 
and  served  until  his  death,  March  8,  1864. 

James  Stephenson  was  elected  in  November,  1858,  and  was 
ordained  and  installed  some  time  in  December,  1858.  vServed  until 
his  removal  from  bounds  of  congregation,  Julv  6,  1867.  Now  an 
elder  in  Presbyterian  Church,  Butler,  Pa. 

John  Craig,  Jr.,  was  elected  in  November,  1858,  and  ordained 
and  installed  in  December,  1853.  Still  serving  as  ruling  elder  at 
this  date,  January  18,  1888, 

J.  B.  McKee  and  J.  \V.  Barclay  wei'e  elected  June  15,  1868, 
and  ordained  and  installed  December  6,  1868.  Mr.  Barclay  has 
removed  from  the  bounds  of  the  congregation. 

J.  A.  Hall  and  J.  T.  McCurdy  were  elected  October  20,  1873, 
and  ordained  and  installed  in  March,  1874. 

T.  V.  McKee  and  W.  H.  Leard  were  elected,  November  22, 
1886.      Mr.  McKee  (previously  ordained)  was   installed   February 


372  HISTORY    OF    THE 


13,  1887.      Mr,    Leard    was   ordained    and    installed    February  18, 
1887. 

SABRATII    SCHOOL    SUPERINTENDENTS. 

We  cannot  give  dates,  but  give  the  names  as  near  in  order  as 
we  cjin,  each  of  which  served  from  one  to  three  years: 

John  Craig,  J.  T.  McCurdy,  J.  W.  Barclay,  Jas.  B.  McKee, 
John  A.  Hall,  S.  W.  McKee,  W.  H.  Leard,  Amos  Crum,  S.  J. 
Walker. 

REVIVAL. 

There  has  been  no  marked  revival  in  this  church  since  its 
organization,  but  a  steady  increase  from  a  membership  of  twenty 
until  it  has  now  a  membership  of  one  hundred  and  eleven.  We 
are  still  laboring  under  the  direction  and  in  dependence  upon  Him 
who  said;  "  And,  lo,  I  am  with  you  always,  even  unto  the  end  of 
the  world." 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  373 


S<3HOOIyS. 


The  territory  comprised  in  the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning 
may  justly  be  claimed  to  have  made  for  itself  an  honorable 
record  in  the  work  of  education.  We  cannot  indeed  point  to 
a  Harvard,  a  Yale  or  a  Princeton  within  our  borders ;  but  yet 
as  time  has  passed,  institutions  of  learning  have  sprung  up, 
some  of  which  after  fulfilling  a  mission  of  usefulness  have  dis- 
appeared, while  others  are  still  holding  on  their  way  with  an 
ever  widening  sphere  of  influence.  It  is  yet  but  about  a 
hundred  years  since  the  first  settlements  were  made  within  our 
borders,  and,  as  is  usual  in  new  communities,  years  passed 
away  before  schools  of  a  higher  grade  made  their  appearance 
or  were  needed.  But  during  later  years  this  ground  has  been 
prolific  in  schools,  a  number  of  which  have  taken  high  rank 
among  institutions  of  their  kind,  and  have  accomplished  a  work 
of  which  any  institution  might  be  proud.  And  to-day  there 
are  few  sections  of  country  of  similar  extent  that  offer  better 
facilities  within  their  own  limits  for  acquiring  a  liberal  educa- 
tion. 

This  Presbytery  in  its  organic  capacity  has  not  had  con- 
nection with  any  of  the  schools  within  its  limits.  It  has,  there- 
fore, no  "  Presbyterial "  school  or  schools  to  point  to  either 
with  pride  or  with  shame.  Nor  have  the  schools  to  be  men- 
tioned been  in  any  narrowly  sectarian  sense  Presbyterian. 
They  have  been  freely  sought  by  persons  holding  to  other 
forms  of  the  common  Christian  faith,  and  have  been  found 
thoroughly  congenial  to  them.        But  yet  the  relation  to  some 


tl74  HISTORY    OF    THE 


of  these  schools  of  members  or  churches  of  this  Presbytery 
has  been  such  as  fairly  to  stamp  them  as  Presbyterian  enter- 
prises. A  number  of  others,  while  less  formally  Presbyterian,, 
have  been  chiefly  under  Presbyterian  auspices  and  indebted  tO' 
Presbyterian  patronage.  Sketches  of  these  schools  will  now 
follow,  those  best  entitled  to  be  called  Presbyterian  being 
placed  first,  and  brief  mention  will  then  be  made  of  a  number 
of  other  institutions  within  the  bounds  of  this  Presbytery,  but, 
to  which  it  is  not  claimed  that  the  name  Presbyterian  at  all  or 
in  any  strict  sense  belongs.  These  last  are  added  to  complete 
the  view  of  the  educational  facilities  enjo3'^ed  by  the  people  of 
the  two  counties  comprised  in  the  Presbytery.  The  classifica- 
tion of  a  fev\-  of  the  schools  mentioned  may  not  be  strictly 
accurate,  and  a  few  schools  may  be  omitted  that  are  as  worthy 
of  notice  as  some  that  are  mentioned.  But  it  is  proper  to  be 
remarked  that  this  feature  of  the  present  work  was  to  some 
extent  an  after-thought,  and  the  material  had  to  be  made  up 
somewhat  hastily,  and  from  such  data  as  were  most  readily 
obtainable.  A  number  of  the  sketches,  as  will  be  observed,, 
have  been  prepared  with  care  and  considerable  fulness,  while 
others  are  limited  to  a  brief  outline. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  375 


COLUMBIA  UNIVERSITY. 


»TTT  TTTTTTTYTTTT 


BY    REV,    B.    H.    SLOAN. 


The  Legislature  of  Pennsylvania  passed  an  act  which  was 
approved,  March  18,  1858,  granting  a  very  liberal  charter  to  an 
"institution  of  learning  to  be  located  at  Kittanning,  and  to  be  known 
as  the  "  University  of  Kittanning."  Under  this  charter  it  seems 
that  little  or  nothing  was  done.  A  supplement  to  the  charter  was 
secured,  May  13,  1868,  in  which,  among  other  things,  it  was  pro- 
vided that  a  majority  of  the  trustees  should  be  in  connection  with 
the  Presbyterian  Church.  Under  the  charter  thus  arnended, 
■schools  were  opened  in  a  building  on  Jefferson  street,  formerl}'^  used 
as  a  hotel,  and  the  institution  started  out  with  fair  indications  of 
success.  The  catalogue  for  1868—9  shows  an  aggregate  attendance 
of  123  students,  with  the  following  faculty,  viz.:  Rev.  T.  D. 
Ewing,  A.  M.,  President,  {^pro  tern.)  and  Professor  of  Logic, 
Natural  and  Revealed  Religion;  Rev.  J.  N.  Dick,  A.  M.,  Vice 
President,  Professor  of  Metaphysics  and  Ethics;  Robert  Woods,  A. 
M.,  Professor  of  Ancient  and  Modern  Languages;  J.  Watson 
Jamison,  A.  M.,  Professor  of  Mathematics  and  Natural  Science;  R. 
W.  Smith,  A.  M.,  Registrar;  Miss  M.  H.  Foley,  Miss  Emma  A. 
Johnston,  Instructors  in  Female  Department;  G.  A.  W.  Schotte, 
Professor  of  Music. 

But  though  this  institution  had  a  liberal  charter  and  an  able 
faculty,  its  expectations  in  the  way  of  pecuniary  support  from 
the  citizens  of  the  community  in  which  it  was  located  were  not 
realized.  Without  buildings  of  its  own  and  without  endowment, 
the  income  realized  from  tuition  fees  was  not  sufficient  to  meet  nec- 
essary expenses,  and  after  a  few  terms  it  was  closed. 


876  HISTORY    OF    THE 


COVODE  ACADEMY. 


TTrTTTTTTTTrTTtr 


FROM    NOTES    BY  A.   J.    T.    CRAWFORD  ANI>    REV.    A.    T.    BELL. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


This  school  was  organized  by  the  congregation  of  Mount 
Pleasant.  .  At  a  meeting  of  the  session  in  the  spring  of  1862,  it 
was  determined,  in  order  to  meet  the  educational  wants  of  the  com- 
munity, to  build  an  academy.  A  meeting  of  the  trustees  of  the 
church  was  called,  April  26,  1862,  and  a  building  committee  was 
appointed,  consisting  of  John  Gourley,  A.  J.  T.  Crawford  and 
William  G.  Lewis,  with  George  H.  McCombs  as  Treasurer.  In 
this  movement  the  congregation,  at  a  meeting,  expressed  hearty 
concurrence.  The  academy  building  is  located  on  a  lot  belonging 
to  tie  congregation,  and  was  erected  in  1862-3.  It  is  named  after 
Hon.  John  Covode,  of  Westmoreland  county,  who,  about  the  time 
the  school  was  founded,  was  a  prominent  member  of  the  House  of 
Representatives  at  Washington.  He  recognized  the  compliment 
intended  in  the  name  by  presenting  an  excellent  bell  to  the 
academy. 

This  academy  was  under  the  management  of  the  session  and 
trustees  of  the  church  until  1870,  when,  in  order  to  unite  the  inter- 
est of  all  in  its  support  and  widen  its  field  of  influence,  an  equal 
share  in  the  management  of  the  school  was  offered  to  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church  in  Covode,  and  was  by  them  accepted.  Since 
then  the  Board  of  Trustees  has  consisted  of  six  persons,  three  being 
selected  from  each  church. 

If  this  school  has  not  been  one  of  the  most  famous  of  the 
land,  it  has  yet  done  a  good  work  in  its  own  sphere.  It  has  had 
a   yearly  endowment  of  from    thirty    to    forty   students,    and    has 


TPRESBYTERY    OF    KITTATSINING.  377 

enjoyed  the  services  of  many  competent  and  faithful  teachers,  most 
of  them,  however,  for  only  short  periods.  From  1864  to  1872 
inclusive,  the  teachers  in  their  oixler,  as  nearly  as  can  Ipe  given,  were 
the  following,  viE.:  W.  A.  Leggett,  J.  B.  Mclntyre,  J.  A.  Richey, 
David  Brown,  S.    Miller  Davis,  Joseph  T.  Gibson,  W.  J.  Moore, 

M.  T.  Howe  and  Mr. .  Sloan.     After  these  the  teachers  were 

in  order  as  follows:  J.  McGaugney,  1873-4;  A.  Forbes  Irwin, 
1875;  W.  E.  Oiler,  1876;  F.  Swartz  Crawford,  1877-8;  Rev.  W. 
F.  Gibson,  assisted  by  Rev.  D.  H.  King,  1879;  Rev.  W.  F.  Gibson, 
1885;  Samuel  Taylor  Lewis,  1881;  R.  H.  Hood,  1882;  J.  M 
Boggs,  1883;  S.  A.  Saxman,  1884;  Samuel  T.  Lewis,  1885-;  W.  F. 
Shields,  1886;  M.  J.  Mohney,  1887;  D.  Elder  Craighead,  1888. 
Of  the  foregoing  Messrs.  Brown,  Davis,  J.  T.  Gibson,  McGaughey, 
Irwin,  Oiler,  Crawford,  W.  F.  Gibson,  King,  Boggs  are  Presby- 
terian ministers;  Mr.  Hood  is  a  U.  P.  minister;  Mr.  Lewis  is  a 
licentiate  of  the  Presbyterian  Church ;  Jylr.  Shields  is  preparing  for 
the  ministry;  Messrs,  Richey  and  Mohney  are  engaged  in  educa- 
tional work,  and  Mr.  Saxman  is  deceased.  Mr.  Craighead  is  a 
-"ecent  graduate  of  Lafayette  College. 


4B 


'^78  HrSTORY    OF    THE 


ELDERSRIDGE   ACADEMY. 


T rr T TTTTTTrrTTTT 


BY    PROF.    T.    B.    ELDER. 


fTTTTTTrTTTTTTTT 


And  God  said,  Let  there  be  Light  and  there  was  Light.     Gen.  1 :  3^^. 

Natural  light,  scientific  light,  moral  light,  "the  light  of  life  "  im 
a  spiritual  sense,  and  everything  that  tends  to  promote  and  diffuse 
them  are  thus  encouraged.  Historic  records  are  of  great  use  in 
unfolding  God's  providential  goodness.  This  seems  to  justify  at 
this  time  a  brief  history  of  Eldersridge  Academy. 

PRELIMINARY    REMARKS. 

About  the  year  1840,  the  cause  of  education,  above  the  common 
school,  was  at  a  low  ebb  in  the  boundaries  of  what  was  then  Blairs- 
ville  Presbytery.  True,  in  every  county  seat  included  in  it,  there 
was  an  academy  building,  but  rarely  were  any  two  of  them  in  use 
at  the  same  time.  The  prevalent  custom  was  about  this:  One  of 
them  would  secure  a  popular  teacher,  who  would  attract  pupils 
from  surrounding  counties,  and  he  would  continue  for  a  year  or 
two.  Then  one  whose  methods  were  different,  perhaps  inferior, 
would  succeed  him  and  scatter  the  school.  In  another  county  seat 
a  similar  trial  with  a  like  issue  would  be  made,  and  such  experi- 
ments would  pass  the  rounds. 

During  this  state  of  affairs  the  Presbytery  met  at  Eldeihridge^ 
[une  20,  1889,  to  ordain  its  first  and  only  pastor.  Rev.  Alexander 
Donaldson,  At  the  same  time  a  young  man  was  there  aspiring  to 
the  holy  ministry,  whose  parents  resided  in  that  congregation,  but 
whose  membership  was  in  the  adjoining  congregation  of  Bethel. 
To  secure  a  fuller  acquaintance  with  him,  before  deciding  his  case. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  379 

the  two  pastors  concerned  were  appointed  a  committee  of  confer- 
ence with  him  until  the  next  meeting.  To  afford  a  better  oppor- 
tunity for  this  he  began  to  recite  privately  to  the  newly  ordained 
pastor,  who  was  known  to  have  experience  in  teaching.  Shortly 
after  another  obtained  a  similar  privilege.  In  the  following  spring 
three  or  four  more  began  to  recite.  Thus  they  continued,  less  or 
more  in  numbers,  for  six  years  without  any  thought  of  an  academic 
organization.  By  a  singular  providence  their  teacher  became  ac- 
quainted with  John  M.  Barnett,  a  popular  teacher  of  common 
schools  who  had  considerable  familiarity  with  Latin  and  Greek,  and 
for  the  first  time  arose  the  thought  of  opening  an  academy  with  him 
as  assistant. 

Dr.  Matthew  Brown,  of  Jefferson  College,  was  consulted  on 
the  subject,  and  warmly  favored  it,  giving  the  pastor  every  encour- 
agement and  an  encomiastic  letter  to  the  community,  stating  his 
high  standing  in  the  college  while  a  student,  and  his  very  accept- 
able tutorship  in  it,  and  expressing  his  qualifications  for  academic 
teaching. 

ORGANIZATION    OF    ELDERSRTDGE    ACADEMY. 

With  this  commendation  of  Dr.  Brown  and  the  warm  approval 
of  others  consulted,  on  April  16,  1847,  the  academy  was  opened 
with  sixteen  students,  and  Mr.  Barnett  as  assistant  teacher.  Many, 
however,  regarded  the  project  as  extremely  visionary,  and  said,  if 
schools  cannot  be  kept  up  for  any  length  of  time  in  a  county  town, 
it  is  silly  to  expect  that  it  can  be  done  in  an  entirely  rural  region. 
But  in  the  belief  that  the  failures  noticed  in  this  line  occurred  largely 
from  want  of  a  permanent  head  to  the  institution,  its  founder  and 
proprietor  persisted  in  expectation  of  success^ 

PATRONAGE. 

Very  soon  patronage  came  from  Clarion  county  on  the  north 
and  Cambria  on  the  south  east,  and  all  the  intervening  counties, 
some  even  from  Huntingdon,  Bedford  and  Franklin.  The  position 
taken  and  maintained  by  students  from  this  academy  in  what  was 
then  Jefferson  College,  attracted  attention,  and  numbers  who  had 
enrolled  there  in  the  lower  classes  were  thus  drawn  to  this  institu- 
tion as  a  more  profitable  place  to  spend  the  earlier  years  of  a  college 
course.     In  this  way  the  academy  came  to  have  representatives  from 


380  HrSTORY    OF    Tfre 


all  the  surrounding  States,  principally  the  middle  and  western,  but 
even  fronn  Mississippi  and  Louisiana.  In  from  six  to  eight  years  it 
had  become  widely  known,  and  had  something  like  a  national 
reputation. 

COMPETITION. 

When,  after  an  experience  of  three  or  four  years,  success 
seemed  sure,  other  schools  in  many  villages  around  and  a  few  also- 
in  country  situations,  were  started  up^  but,  as  far  as  known,  all 
were  on  a  joint  stock  principle.  Not  one  is  believed  to  have  had 
the  responsible  proprietor  as  principal.  At  Eldersridge  the  founder 
was  principal,  proprietor,  and  responsible  for  everything.  Tlie 
number  of  students  increased  to  eighty-five  in  the  male  depart- 
ment. At  the  same  time  a  female  select  school  was  taught  sep- 
arately for  over  ten  years.  If  its  pupils  had  been  then  counted  in^ 
the  whole  number  would  have  been  over  one  hundred  in  daily 
attendance. 

CHECKS    ON    PATRONAGE. 

In  the  summer  of  1854,  an  epidemic  typhoid  fever  broke  out  in 
one  of  the  boarding  houses,  of  which  the  proprietor,  several  of  his 
friends,  a  student  in  the  house,  and  many  other  neighbors  died. 
When  its  character  became  known,  the  largest  number  of  students 
ever  here  at  one  time  and  some  of  the  best,  scattered  away  nearly 
a  month  before  the  session  would  have  ended.  Five  or  six  of 
them  died.  As  the  fever  was  still  raging  when  the  next  session 
commenced,  more  than  three-fourths  of  our  students  never 
returned,  but  distributed  themselves  to  other  academies  in  the 
neighboring  counties  which  had  already  multiplied  to  the  number 
of  ten  or  twelve.  Scarcely  had  the  Academy  rallied  from  this  dis- 
aster, by  which  its  competitors  profited  so  much,  when  the  civil  war 
broke  out  and  kept  the  number  of  its  students  small,  during  four 
years  of  its  continuance. 

The  whole  number  of  students  who  have  enjoyed  the  benefits 
of  the  institution  thus  far  is  somewhat  over  2,500,  or  including  the 
females  who,  for  over  ten  years,  were  taught  by  a  diflferent  teacher, 
over  2,600. 

STUDENTS    WHO    HAVE    ATTAINED    DISTINCTION. 

Of  these  over  150  have  become  ministers  of  the  gospel,  one  at 
a  youthful    age    sitting    as    moderator    of  the    General   A&sembly. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  881 

Many,  crowned  with  the  honorable  title  of  D.  D.,  are  found  occu- 
pying positions  of  eminence  in  the  church,  and  nine  are  foreign 
missionaries.  Over  eighty  have  become  physicians.  More  than 
ninety  have  been  admitted  to  the  bar,  and  of  these  at  least  six  have 
honored  the  bench.  In  educational  work  many  are  prominent,  one 
as  a  college  president,  others  as  distinguished  professors  or  as  prin- 
cipals of  academies  or  high  schools.  Three  are  editors  of  papers, 
secular  and  religious,  one  lieutenant  governor  and  numerous  state 
senators  and  legislators.  Many  sleep  in  the  national  cemeteries  or 
in  their  own  church  yards,  in  graves  honored  by  the  nation,  while 
others  still  survive  with  military  titles  that  testify  to  honorable 
service,  and  one  had  the  distinction  of  marching  on  Sherman's 
staff,  from  "  Atlanta  to  the  sea." 

BOARDING. 

Ten  or  twelve  families  within  a  circuit  of  two  miles,  for  a  few 
years  at  first  accommodated  the  students  with  boarding  at  one 
dollar  per  week.  Within  ten  years,  John  Smith,  Christopher 
Iman,  and  John  Thom,  Esq.,  had  erected  boarding  houses.  During 
the  same  time  boarding  rose  to  $1.25,  $1.50,  $1.75,  $2.00,  $2.25, 
$2.50,  $2.75,  $3.00,  $3.25,  $3.50.  But  a  large  number  of  students 
have,  during  all  these  variations,  rented  rooms  and  boarded  them- 
selves at  an  expense  of  little  more  than  one  dollar  per  week,  and 
while  thus  practicing  the  close  and  useful  economies  of  such  a  life, 
have  taken  high  grade  iu  scholarship,  and  as  high  position  in  the 
respect  and  esteem  of  a  community  which  has  learned  to  look 
kindly  and  encouragingly  upon  that  class  of  students.  An  effort 
is  now  being  made  to  introduce  "  boarding  clubs,"  as  at  colleges, 
with  a  fair  prospect  of  furnishing  good  boarding  at  the  rate  of  $2 
per  week. 

ASSISTANTS    IN    TEACHING. 

Assistant  teachers  have  been  numerous,  sometimes  one  at  a  time, 
but  mostly  two.  The  income  from  tuition  has  always  been  divided 
equally  between  the  principal  and  each  assistant.  The  following 
teachers,  generally  aiding  themselves  in  professional  studies,  have 
been  employed  for  shorter  or  longer  terms:  John  M.  Barnett, 
James  A.  McKnight,  Matthew  Clark,  John  M.  McElroy,  D.  W. 
Elder,  John  C.  Thom,  T.   B.   Elder,  J.  W.   Smith,  S.   Kennedy, 


'S82  HISTORY    OF    THE 


Esq.,  Ja«.  E.  Caruthcrs,  J.  H.  Donaldson,  F.J.  C.  Schneider,  S.  J. 
Craighead,  A.  W.  McCullough,  Eben  B.  Caldwell,  G.  B.  Smith, 
S.  S.  GiUon,  A.  M.  Donaldson,  W.  B.  Donaldson,  W.  W.  McLane, 
II,  H.  Knijjht,  W.J.  Bollman,  John  Brownson,  R.  H.  Carothers, 
I.  M.  Duncan,  John  B.  Donaldson,  C.  F.  Gallagher,  John  A. 
Scott,  G.  W.  Gilbert,  S.  M.  Jack,  Rev.  A.  S.  Stewart,  L.  A. 
Frantz  and  Maggie  M.  Elder.  Of  some  of  these  farther  mention 
should  be  made.  John  M.  Barnett,  whose  acquaintance  with  the 
principal  was  really  the  occasion  of  the  organization  of  the  institu- 
tion, and  who  added  greatly  to  its  early  popularity,  taught  very 
acceptably  for  four  years.  J.  A.  McKnight,  an  entirely  self-made 
man,  who  from  the  facility  with  which  he  is  said  to  have  "  pulver- 
ized "  every  difficulty  in  that  language,  was  dubbed  "  the  Greek 
Grinder,"  modestly  returned  to  a  farmer's  life.  John  M.  McElroy, 
teaching  two  years,  by  his  devoted  piety  contributed  in  stamping  a 
character  in  that  respect  upon  the  institution.  John  C.  Thorn,  teach- 
ing nearly  two  years,  by  his  well  known  talent  and  energy  raised 
its  reputation  still  higher,  James  E.  Caruthers,  whose  filial  duty 
kept  him  till  thirty-two  years  of  age  from  commencing  study,  and 
whose  enterprise  and  piety  carried  him  through  tne  Academy, 
College  and  Theological  Seminary,  each  in  two  years.  During  the 
last  two  summers  of  his  course  he  taught  in  the  academy,  and  in 
the  latter  preached  to  two  congregations.  S.  S.  Gilson,  while 
teaching  successfully  one  year,  privately  studied  a  system  of"  short 
hand  writing"  with  such  success  as  to  take  down  several  sermons 
before  the  year  was  out,  and  soon  became  such  an  expert  in  the 
business  as  to  be  employed  for  fourteen  years  by  the  General  Assem- 
bly of  the  Presbyterian  Church  to  do  its  reporting,  and  indeed  to 
hold  a  front  rank  among  all  reporters  in  the  land.  W.  W.  McLane, 
who  had  pushed  himself  rapidly  and  very  successfully  through 
college,  while  teaching  a  j-ear  in  this  institution  aided  Dr.  Donald- 
son much  in  the  Wednesday  evening  prayer  meeting,  and  supplied 
a  neighboring  congregation  very  ably,  evincing  a  sure  prospect  of 
rising  high  in  his  profession. 

.Space  will  not  allow  of  further  specification  of  this  lengthy  line 
of  assistants,  though  many  who  knew  them  lovingly  as  instructors 
and  as  successful  men  in  after  life  and  in  other  callings  will  doubt- 
less regard  manv  more  of  them  entitled  to  special  mention. 


PRESBVTERV    OF    KITTANNING.  383 

PRESBYTERIAL    CONNECTION. 

Immediately  after  the  organization  of  this  academy,  when  such 
connections  were  popular,  the  Presbytery  of  Blairsville,  in  which 
this  region  was  then  included,  appointed  a  committee  on  the  subject 
of  a  Presbyterial  Academy,  and  required  those  who  aspired  after 
such  connection  to  report  the  particulates  of  their  respective  schools 
to  that  committee.  When  this  had  been  done,  on  the  report  of  this 
committee,  Eldersridge,  in  1848,  was  taken  up  as  the  Blairsville 
Presbyterial  Academy,  and  trustees  or  more  properly  visitors,  were 
appointed  annually  to  attend  its  examinations  and  advise  respecting 
its  management.  Very  soon,  howevei,  as  several  members  of  the 
Presbytery  became  interested  in  other  schools  wliich  were  starting 
up  one  after  another  within  the  bounds  of  the  Presbytery,  they  lost 
their  interest  in  this  institution,  and  the  connection  became  a  merely 
nominal  one. 

When  the  number  of  these  academies  was  yet  small,  the  trus- 
tees did  advise  in  the  year  1849,  that  a  better  building  should,  if 
possible,  be  erected  at  Eldersridge.  This  was  the  principal  respon- 
sible thing  done  by  the  Presbytery's  representatives  during  the  con- 
nection. In  1856  the  Presbytery  was  divided  in  such  a  manner  that 
this  institution  and  its  principal  fell  out  of  its  bounds,  and  not  a 
word  was  publicly  said  about  it.  So  the  connection  was  by  default 
silently  terminated.  Indeed  it  had  never  been  anything  more  than 
formal.  A  dollar  had  not  been  given,  neither  had  students  in  this 
way  ever  been  recruited  for  it.  All  responsibility  was  just  that  of 
a  private  school. 

REVIVALS. 

Though  no  weekly  prayer  meeting  had  ever  before  been  kept 
in  the  congregation  of  Eldersridge,  one  was  commenced  by  the 
pastor  and  his  students  in  1846,  more,  than  a  year  before  the 
academy  proper  was  organized.  This  was  regularly  kept  up  among 
them  until  the  spring  of  1850,  with  a  good  deal  of  interest  before  it 
was  laid  open  for  the  congregation.  Immediately,  when  the  mem- 
bers of  the  congregation  in  the  vicinity  began  to  attend,  reviving 
influences  became  apparent,  and  with  very  little  interruption  con- 
tinued for  ten  or  twelve  years.  During  this  time  scores  of  students 
either  here  or  in  the  churches  at  home,  connected  themselves  with 
the   people  of  God,  and    many  of  them    are  of  those  already  men- 


384  HISTORY    OF    THE 


tioned  as  having  entered  the  ministry  of  reconciliation.  These  were 
the  happiest  days  in  the  life  of  the  Academy,  of  the  congregation 
which  included  it,  and  we  helie\e  even  in  the  life  of  him  who  joy- 
fully presided  over  it. 

"  May  God  repeat  the  heavenly  hour, 
The  vision  so  divine." 

PRIZES    FOR     EXCELLENCE. 

With  n  view  to  promote  a  holy  emulation  among  the  students* 
the  principal  instituted  an  annual  prize  at  his  own  expense,  but  to  be 
awarded,  by  vote,  to  the  student  whose  general  excellence  of  char- 
acter seemed  best  to  the  voters.  Twenty-eight  of  these  were  given 
by  the  principal,  consisting  of  books,  ranging  in  price  from  $1.50  to 
$4.00,  and  together  amounting  to  at  least  one  hundred  dollais. 
Sometimes  they  were  evidently  awarded  through  favoritism ;  still 
the  custom  is  believed  to  have  been  a  good  one,  and  to  have  kept 
the  students  mindful  that  the}-  were  always  forming  character, 
which  would  be  likel}'  to  cling  to  them  through  life.  Only  v/hen 
the  control  of  the  academy  was  committed  to  other  hands  was  this 
custom  abandoned. 

BUILDINGS. 

The  first  session  of  the  academy  was  held  in  the  pastor's  study, 
the  upper  story  of  a  spring  house,  18  by  12  feet,  except  a  month  or 
two  in  the  church.  Meanwhile  the  founder  had  erected,  at  his  own 
expense,  a  building  like  a  common  school  house,  26  by  24  feet,  at  a 
cost  of  $820,  which  sufficed  for  over  three  years.  Then  because 
other  schools  were  multiplying,  generally  with  better  houses,  he 
risked  the  erection  of  a  tv/o-story  brick  building,  48  by  82  feet,  at  a 
cost  of  $2,000,  besides  the  grounds  and  inclosures.  Hitherto  all  the 
students  had  been  included  in  one  Literary  Society,  but  the  new 
building  provided  tor  two.  The  lower  story  had  twelve  feet  of  the 
front  cut  off  tor  a  short  hall,  and  on  each  side  of  it  were  students 
rooms,  the  mjjin  hall  occupying  the  remainder.  Tiie  upper  story 
had  twelve  feet  in  front  for  a  recitation  room,  and  the  main  part 
divided  for  two  society  halls.  These  the  students  themselves  fur- 
nished and  have  used  ever  since. 

Of  this  edifice,  also.  Dr.  Donaldson  was  at  the  entire  expense. 
But  for  a  strong  faith  in  the  righteousness  of  the  undertaking,  and 
for  evidence  of  manifest  good  accomplished,  it  would  have  proved 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  385 

a  crushing  burden.  As  it  was,  the  building  stood  for  years  a  con- 
stant menace  of  insolvency.  Having  but  $300  of  his  own  to  put 
into  it,  he  had  more  than  $1,700  on  interest  at  six  per  cent  for  over 
twenty-two  years, so  that  the  entire  cost  to  him  was  over  $3,700,  or 
of  the  tv/o  buildings  over  $4,000.  As,  in  a  few  years,  the  whole 
was  given  away  in  trust  to  others,  this  was  his  pecuniary  contribu- 
tion to  the  cause  of  education  within  the  bounds  of  his  patronage. 
The  wide  reputation  of  the  institution  might  have  made  it  easily 
-convertible  into  a  school  like  that  now  at  Pottstown,  Pa,,  or  at 
Philips'  Academy  at  Andover,  Mass.,  where  with  high  tuition,  and 
a  patronage  thus  limited  in  a  measure  to  the  wealthy,  it  might  have 
been  made  easily  self-sustaining  and  even  pecuniarily  profitable.  In 
the  midst  of  these  straits,  too,  a  trying  opportunity  offered  itself  and 
was  pressed  to  transfer  the  building  and  grounds  to  the  State  for 
the  establishment  of  one  of  its  Orphan  Schools.  But  the  principal 
persisted  in  maintaining  it  as  a  first-class  academy,  with  low  rates  of 
tuition  and  easy  opportunities  for  all  as  promising  more  general 
good, 

LITERARY   SOCIETIES, 

As  already  intimated,  while  in  the  building  first  erected,  all 
the  students  were  included  in  one  society  called  Amphisbeteon, 
which  held  weekly  meetings.  When  the  two-story  building  came 
to  be  occupied  they  divided  themselves  equally  between  two  new 
societies  called  Ereuneteon  and  Matheteon,  in  which,  as  before, 
their  meetings  were  held  weekly.  In  these  the  exercises  consisted 
of  declamation,  essays,  original  oration  and  debate,  either  prepared 
or  extemporary.  To  these  much  and  profitable  attention  was 
given,  and  the  interest  in  them  was  greatly  stimulated  by  a  whole- 
some rivalry  between  the  two  societies.  Decided  opinions  have 
been  expressed  by  students  of  this  institution,  after  having  graduated 
at  college,  that  the  societies  here  were  incomparably  better  con- 
ducted and  more  profitable  than  at  colleges  where  the  members  of 
two  societies  are  distributed  into  fraternities,  which  are  more 
highly  regarded. 

These  societies  annually  held  contests  in  all  their  various  exer- 
cises. For  many  years  they  were  held  in  April,  but  latterly  they 
are  held  just  before  the  holidays.  Picked  men  from  each  society 
are  chosen  to  contest  with  each  other  in  declamation,  essay,  original 
oration  and  debate,  and  three  literary  men  are  chosen  to  decide  the 

49 


886  HISTORY    OF    THE 


palm  of  superiority  between  them.  The  decisions  were  at  first 
recorded  in  a  book  kept  for  the  purpose,  which  somehow  got  lost 
or  destroyed,  and  afterwards  no  joint  registry  was  made  of  them.. 
By  memory  it  is  known  that  occasionally  one  society  would  "sweep 
the  board,"  and  sometimes  the  other,  generally,  however,  each 
society  would  share  a  part  of  the  "  honors  "  of  the  occasion,  and  it 
is  pretty  confidently  believed  that  in  the  aggregate  neither  societ} 
greatly  preponderates  over  the  other  in  this  matter.  Almost  uni- 
versally contestors  devoted  themselves  earnestly  to  their  task  of  pre- 
paration, and  in  the  final  ordeal  did  credit  to  themselves  and  their 
society,  whe^ther  the  award  of  the  judges  was  gained  or  not.  In- 
deed, while  the  decision  of  the  judges  expressed  honestly  their 
opinion,  often  intelligent  men  in  the  audience  formed  a  different 
one.  For  this  and  other  reasons  the  opinion  is  gaining  ground  that 
judges  should  not  be  chosen,  but  each  person  in  the  audience  be  left 
to  form  an  untrammeled  opinion.  It  is  found  that  contests,  in  gen- 
eral exert  a  stimulating  effect  on  those  engaged  in  them,  and  often 
serve  to  discover  and  develop  fine  literary  taste  and  talent.  Cer- 
tainly to  the  communit}'  where  they  are  held  they  are  a  source  of 
high  literary  and  social  enjoyment. 

An  exhibition  is  also  held  at  the  close  of  every  academic  year, 
in  which  advanced  students  of  both  societies  indiscriminately  read 
essays  or  deliver  orations,  four  of  the  performances  being  awarded 
to  special  merit,  viz. :  Salutatory,  Latin  and  Gi^eek  oration  and 
Valedictory.  This  occasion  affords  another  opportunity  of  enjoy- 
ing "  a  feast  of  reason  and  a  flow  of  soul  "  as  well  as  of  bringing 
together  in  pleasant  social  intercourse  prized  patrons,  their  friends 
and  acquaintances. 

CHANGE  OF  ACADEMIC  CONTROL. 

In  the  year  1876,  Dr.  Donaldson,  wishing  to  secure  in  a  legal 
way  its  oerpetuation  after  he  must  be  separated  from  it,  selected  a 
Board  of  nineteen  trustees,  (to  be  self-perpetuating),  from  the 
different  religious  denominations  in  the  vicinity  with  this  condition, 
that  in  choosing  the  faculty,  the  Principal  should  always  be  a  Pres- 
byterian. To  this  Board  he  legall}'  conveyed  all  his  right,  title, 
interest  and  claim  to  the  acadeni}-  building,  its  grounds,  appurte- 
nances and  franchises,  asking  in  return  that  whenever  any  of  his 
descendants,  one  at  a  time,  should  be  sent  to  it  as  a  pupil,  no  charge 
should  be  made  for  tuition.     The  Board  having  accepted  the  trust, 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  '387 

re-roofed  the  building  and  made  other  repairs  to  the  amount  of  six 
hundred  doHars,  and  re-elected  the  Faculty.  Dr.  Donaldson  was 
retained  as  principal  and  re-elected  each  year.  In  1884  he  asked 
to  be  relieved  from  all  further  connection  with  the  institution. 
This  they  unanimously  refused  to  consent  to,  feeling  that  it  could 
not  be  done  without  a  serious  shock  to  an  institution  that  had 
hitherto  been  so  entirely  his  own,  and  whose  reputation  was  so 
closely  identified  with  that  of  his  own  name.  They  acceded  to 
his  request,  however,  in  the  year  1885,  when  he  had  filled  the 
office  for  a  period  of  over  thirty-eight  years,  with  such  marked 
■success  in  training  mind  and  stamjDing  character  as  to  justly  place 
him  in  the  front  rank  of  successful  educators.  Patriarchal  in  his 
personal  appearance,  parental  in  his  discipline,  paternal  in  his 
solicitude  for  the  welfare  of  the  youth  entrusted  to  his  care,  his 
students  had  long  ago  crowned  him  with  an  appropriate  title  of 
endearment  and  respect,  and  to-day  the  name,  "  Pater  "  Donaldson, 
kindles  as  warm  emotions  in  students  of  Eldersridge  Academy,  as 
<ever  did  that  of  Arnold  in  the  boys  of  Rugby. 

On  the  release  of  Dr.  Donaldson  r  om  further  active  participa- 
tion in  the  cares  and  labors  of  the  institution.  Prof.  T,  B.  Elder, 
w^ho  had  been  very  pleasantly  associated  with  him  as  assistant  for 
-nearly  one-half  the  time  since  its  organization,  was  chosen  princi- 
pal, which  position  he  still  holds,  and  L.  H.  Frantz,  a  late  graduate 
of  Lafayette  College,  is  the  principal  instructor. 

Did  the  principalship  injure  the  pastorate?  is  a  question  that 
may  arise  to  many,  in  view  of  the  fact  that  the  responsible  relation^ 
ship  of  a  pastor  to  such  an  institution,  involving  the  teaching  of 
his  classes,  five  days  out  of  the  week  far  so  many  years,  must  have 
interfered  considerable  with  free,  easy  and  frequent  intercourse 
^vvith  his  people. 

In  the  case  of  one  with  less  capacity  for  work,  with  less  love 
of  activity  and  less  faithfulness  to  duty,  it  might  have  been  other- 
wise; but,  situated  favorably  for  knowing,  the  writer  has  never 
heard  from  congregation  or  from  Presbytery  a  complaint  that  this 
edvicational  work  has  been  accomplished  at  the  expense  of  any 
ministerial  or  pastoral  duties,  but  frequent  testimony  to  the  fact 
that  these  labors  have  been  more  than  usually  "  abundant."  The 
ceaseless  activity  of  early  life  and  of  college  days,  has  but  con- 
tinued in  the  tireless  toil    of  the  ministry,  and  becoming  founder, 


388  HISTORY    OF    THE 


proprietor  and  principal  of  the  academy,  instead  of  weakening: 
him,  he  himself  firmly  believes  has  contributed  greatly  to  increase 
his  vigor  and  even  the  length  of  his  days.  However,  it  might 
have  appeared  in  anticipation,  it  is  clear  in  review,  that  daily  inter- 
course wi^th  lively  young  men  has  contributed  much  to  retain  to- 
him  his  own  youthful  feeling  and  life,  and  that  his  contact  with 
active,  expanding  minds  and  the  constant  endeavor  to  make  them» 
still  more  active  have  served  to  increase  the  activity  and  vitality  of 
his  own  mind  and  heart.  The  living  fact  is,  that  he  is  with  us- 
still,  almost  at  the  age  of  four  score,  warm  in  heart,  fresh,  original 
and  vigorous  in  mind,  still  bringing  out  of  the  treasury  things  new 
as  well  as  old,  fully  abreast  of  the  times,  and  never  yet  having 
arrived  at  that  ministerial  "  dead-line,"  where  many  halt,  while  a 
younger  generation  passes  by.  Certain  it  is  that  a  strong  attach- 
ment to  the  institution  which  he  had  founded  in  prayer  and  self- 
sacrifice,  kept  him  anchored  to  this  place,  when  the  offer  of  the 
presidency  of  a  college  and  other  fields,  promising  wider  usefulness, 
might  otherwise  have  availed  to  secure  his  acceptance  and  divided 
a  pastorate,  now  just  past  its  fiftieth  year. 

It  is  also  fair  to  be  considered,  how  much  so  many  young  per- 
sons of  such  a  character  as  those  constituting  the  vast  majority  of 
the  students,  have  contributed  to  the  improvement  of  the  people 
among  whom  they  mingled  in  free  and  friendly  intercourse.  And 
it  is  gratefully  acknowledged  by  the  community  and  congregation, 
that  they  are  able  to  share  a  just  pride  in  a  place  that  is  brighter 
with  intelligence,  more  attractive  and  more  widely  and  favorably 
known,  from  the  fact  that  within  its  bounds  the  torch  of  science 
has  been  lit  up  and  has  shone  so  long  and  steadily  in  Eldersridge 
Academy. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  389 


GLADE  RUN  CLASSICAL  AND  NORMAL  ACADEMY. 


TTTTTTtTTTtT 


BY    REV.    G.    \V.    MECHLIN,    D.    D. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


EARLY    HISTORY 


Glade  Run  Classical  and  Normal  Academy  is  principally  an 
enterprise  of  Glade  Run  Presbyterian  church.  Many  of  the 
parents  of  this  vicinity  had  a  strong  desire  that  their  children  could 
have  better  facilities  for  education  than  "  the  common  school " 
afforded.  Many  of  the  young  people  somewhere  and  somehow- 
had  imbibed  the  same  idea.  This  thought  was  talked  over  among 
the  people  for  a  long  time  but  no  one  seemed  willing  to  lead  off"  in 
the  much  desired  enterprise.  The  pastor  and  session  of  Glade  Run 
church  had  been  revolving  in  their  minds  a  parochial  school. 
"  To-day  session  resolved  that  measures  be  adopted  for  opening  a 
parochial  school  as  soon  as  possible."  (Minutes  of  session  of  Glade 
Run  church,- May  27,  1851.)  "  The  subject  of  a  select  parochial 
school  was  further  discussed,  but  no  plan  was  adopted,"  (Minutes, 
September  20,  1851.)  These  are  all  the  resolutions  now  known 
to  exist  on  paper,  relating  to  Glade  Run  Academy  before  the  first 
session  opened,  October  27,  1851,  with  Rev.  J.  M.  Jones  as  prin- 
cipal. 

The  session,  who  made  themselves  responsible  for  the  salary  of 
the  principal  for  the  first  year,  modestly  called  it  a  "  Select  Paro- 
chial School."  The  public  at  once  dignified  it  as  "  the  Academy," 
and  from  its  location  near  Glade  Run  and  Glade  Run  church  it 
took  the  name  of  Glade  Run  Academy.  Rev.  Cochran  Forbes, 
Messrs.  Robert  Wilson,  Benjamin  Irwin,  Wm.  Kirkpatrick, 
Robert    Caldwell,    Thomas    Travis,    John    Wadding,    John    C. 


390  HISTORY    OF    THE 


McComb,  William  M.  Findley  and  John  Henderson,  composed  the 
session  at  that  time.  The  names  of  the  present  members  of  the 
Board  of  Trustees  are,  Robert  Wilson,  Benjamin  Irwin,  James  R. 
Marshall,  Samuel  S.  Caldwell,  John  W.  Beck  and  Rev.  G.  W. 
Mechlin. 

The  school  was  opened  in  the  church  building,  and  continued 
there  until  the  erection  of  the  academy  building  in  1853.  The 
effort  was  a  success  from  the  beginning.  All  that  was  needed  was 
a  nucleus  around  which  public  opinion  might  crystalize.  Such 
was  the  origin  of  this  school  which  was  a  precedent  and  has  been 
the  model  of  not  a  few  others  in  a  large  region.  But,  as  often  in 
other  enterprises,  when  a  large  class  of  persons  see  that  an  object 
can  be  accomplished  without  them,  they  will  oppose  what  they 
cannot  control.  This  institvition  has  encountered  invidious  opposi- 
tion and  honorable  competition,  and  is  still  standing  and  endeavor- 
ing to  do  the  work  for  which  it  was  founded. 

PRINCIPALS    AND    TEACHERS. 

Rev.  J-.  M.  Jones  w^as  the  first  principal  and  served  from  1851 
to  1854,  except  one  session  and  part  of  another  during  which  Mr. 
R.  B.Jack  filled  the  position.  Mr.  Jack  was  a  student  of  Wash- 
ington College,  Pa.,  and  a  candidate  for  the  ministry.  He  was 
highly  esteemed  as  a  man  and  a  teacher  by  his  students  and  the 
people  of  Glade  Run.     He  died  at  his  post  in  February,  1855. 

Mr.  Alexander  S.  Marshall,  who  was  born  near  the  academy 
was  the  first  assistant  of  Mr.  Jones  He  was  a  graduate  of  Wash- 
ington College.  He  studied  theology  at  Allegheny  and  Prince- 
ton and  has  been  the  successful  pastor  of  the  Presbyterian  church 
in  Marion,  Iowa,  over  thirty  years.  His  ability  and  success  as  an 
instructor,  and  his  influence  in  favor  of  all  that  is  good  while  here, 
were  an  earnest  of  the  good  work  which  he  has  accomplished  in 
the  missionary  field  on  v^hich  he  entered  in  northwestern  Iowa. 

Mr.  J.  M.  Shields  aided  Mr.  Jones  as  a  teacher  in  1853.  He 
was  then  a  student  in  Western  Theological  Seminary,  having 
graduated  at  Washington  College  in  1852.  His  high  scholarship, 
genial  cheerfulness  and  earnest  piety,  gave  him  a  record  here  as  a 
teacher  honorable  to  himself  and  the  institution,  yet  pleasantly 
remembered  by  his  pupils.     Dr.  Shields   was   afterwards  a  success- 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTAXXING.  891 

t'ul  pastor  of  important  churches,  a  faithful  worker  in  the  cause  of 
education,  and  closed  his  earthly  labors  while  this  sketch  is  beino^ 
written,  November,  1887. 

Mre.  N.  J.  McElho^e,  now  Mrs.  Judge  Torrence,  and  Miss  L. 
M.  Kier,  her  sister,  now  the  wife  of  Rev.  D.  W.  Townsend,  had 
charge  of  the  female  department  for  about  five  years  beginning  in 
1854.  They  were  graduates  of  Blairsville  Female  Seminary. 
Their  good  education  and  firm  and  intelligent  Christian  character 
qualified  them  to  exert  an  influence  for  good  in  the  mental  and 
moral  culture  of  their  pupils  which  will  be  as  lasting  as  life,  and 
always  pleasant  for  them  to  remember.  Not  a  few  homes  are 
brighter  and  sweeter  from  their  training  of  the  wives  and  mothers 
in  them.  On  the  same  day  both  were  married,  then  resigned  and 
left,  much  to  the  regret  of  the  friends  of  the  school.  Miss  Sarah 
H.  Coe,  a  graduate  of  Washington  Female  Seminary  was  their 
successor.  The  ladies  under  her  care  were  greatly  benefited  by 
her  pains-taking  instruction,  her  high  Christian  character,  her 
modest  and  cultured  deportment.  After  about  two  years'  labor 
here  she  left  her  position  to  finish  her  education  and  then  to  preside 
in  the  parsonage  of  Ebenezer  church  as  the  wife  of  Rev.  D.  J. 
Irwin,  D.  D.  She  has  been  a  prominent  member  of  the  Presby- 
terial  Home  and  Foreign  Missionar}'^  societies. 

Mr.  G.  VV.  Mechlin  taught  the  boys'  department  during  the 
summer  term  of  1855.  He  graduated  at  Jefferson  College  in  1858, 
taught  one  year  in  Ohio  and  Illinois,  and  entered  Western  Theo- 
logical Seminary  in  1854.  In  the  spring  of  1856,  as  a  licentiate  he 
began  to  preach  at  Glade  Run  and  Concord  churches,  as  a  supply, 
having  charge  of  the  academy  which  he  held  until  the  autumn  of 
1861.  In  1856,  his  assistant  was  Rev.  J.  S.  Boyd,  of  Washington 
College,  1855,  and  Western  Theological  Seminary  1859,  principal 
of  Withersoon  Institute,  1864-5.  Afterwards  he  was  for  years  a 
Home  Missionary  in  Missouri,  now  pastor  of  Preston  church, 
Minnesota.  His  highly  cultivated  musical  talents,  besides  his  other 
high  qualifications  increased  his  efiiciency  and  acceptability  as  a 
teacher.  He  left  us  respected  by  all,  especially  the  children  whom 
he  taught  to  sing. 

ISIr.  James  H.  Marshall,  whose  native  home  was  here  assisted 
until  1860,  in  the  summer  time  and  for  the  last  year  or  more  was 
assistant  principal.       He    graduated    at  Washington  College,  1859, 


392  HISTORY    OF    THE 


and  Western  Theological  Seminary,  1861,  afterwards  taught  at 
Rock  Island,  111..  Since  1865,  he  has  been  the  acceptable  and 
laborious  pastor  of  Concord  and  North  Butler  churches,  Presby- 
tery of  Butler.  His  accurate  estimate  of  character,  his  clear  and 
pointed  way  of  putting  his  knowledge  before  the  minds  of  others, 
made  him  a  teacher  of  rare  ability  and  success. 

Mr.  D.  J.  Irwin  graduated  at  Jefferson  College,  1858,  and 
Western  Theological  Seminary,  1861,  and  was  associated  with  Mr. 
Marshall  in  teaching  in  1859-60.  He  was  with  Mr.  Marshall 
under  appointment  by  the  Board  of  Foreign  Missions,  but  the 
Board  being  unable  to  send  out  new  laborers  on  account  of  the 
war,  he  took  charge  of  Ebenezer  church  where  he  still  is  doing  a 
good  work.  His  rapid  manner  of  thinking,  pleasant  and  clear 
way  of  saying  what  he  thinks  and  cheerful  address,  gave  him 
many  advantages  as  a  teacher.  His  instruction  was  pleasant  and 
profitable  to  his  pupils. 

Mr.  James  A.  Ritchey  assisted  in  teaching  in  1857.  He 
graduated,  Jefferson  College,  1859,  and  Western  Theological 
Seminary,  1876;  was  professor  of  Greek  and  Rhetoric  in  Franklin 
College,  Ohio;  same  in  Geneva  College  for  several  years.  In  1881, 
he  became  president  of  Lenox  College,  Iowa.  He  received  the 
title  Ph.  D.  from  Washington  and  Jefferson.  Dr.  Ritchey's 
thorough  scholarship  and  devotion  to  the  work  of  teaching  have 
found  an  ample  field  of  usefulness  in  northwestern  Iowa.  The 
college  is  doing  a  great  and  good  work  for  the  church  and  state 
where  it  is  located.  He  has  refused  licensure  to  preach  the  gospel 
on  account  of  peculiar  views  of  the  sacred  office,  though  often 
urged  by  those  who  know  his  qualifications  best.  He  was  County 
Superintendent  of  Public  Schools  in  Armstrong  county.  Pa.,  one 
term.  His  administration  was  honorable  to  himself  and  profitable 
to  the  schools. 

Rev.  B.  S.  Sloan,  a  graduate  of  the  class  of  Washington  Col- 
lege, 1860,  and  Western  Theological  Seminary,  1864,  assisted  the 
principal  in  1861.  He  has  since  labored  a  number  of  years  as  a 
Home  Missionary  in  Illinois,  and  as  pastor  of  Harmony  and 
Bethesda  churches  in  the  Presbytery  of  Kittanning.  He  had  the 
elements  of  a  thorough  and  popular  teacher  in  his  well  trained 
mind  and  mild  yet  decided  character.     So  many  of  the  young  men 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANlSflNG.  393 

volunteered  to  enter  the  army  that  their  part  of  the  annual  exhibi- 
tion had  to  be  suspended  for  that  year.  Mr.  Sloan  is  now  an 
evangelist;  residence,  Indiana,  Pa. 

The  duties  of  the  pastor  of  two  churches,  whose  members 
w^ere  situated  in  a  wide  field,  did  not  allow  time  to  devote  the 
attention  needed  for  the  management  of  the  Academy.  For  this 
reason  the  Rev.  J.  M.  Jones  was  elected  to  succeed  Mr.  Mechlin  as 
principal.  His  qualifications  for  the  post  were  well  known  here. 
He  was  a  graduate  of  Washington  College  in  1851  and  Western 
Theological  Seminary  in  1855;  had  been  four  years  pastor  at 
Walcott,  Iowa.  Besides  his  respectable  scholarship,  his  genial, 
cheerful  disposition  rendered  him  always  a  favorite  in  the  school 
room.  He  naturally  attracted  young  people  and  they  admiringly 
loved  him.  They  knew  he  sympathized  with  them  in  their  diffi- 
culties, as  well  as  their  innocent  sports  and  recreations.  This,  with 
his  devout  and  sincere  piety,  gave  him  almost  boundless  influence 
over  them.  There  were  several  revivals  of  religion  whose  influ- 
ence for  good  will  be  long  felt  by  many,  during  his  charge  of  the 
school.  In  his  varied  fields  of  labor  he  never  did  more  acceptable 
work  for  the  Master  than  he  did  here. 

Mr.  W.  R.  Thompson,  then  a  student  at  Washing'ton  College, 
assisted  in  teaching  in  1862.  He  was  an  instructor  worthy  of  the 
confidence  reposed  in  him  by  the  students  and  friends  of  the  insti- 
tution. He  is  now  a  skillful  physician  with  a  large  practice  in 
Washington,  Pa.  Many  beside  the  writer  would  be  glad  if  space 
would  allow  his  character  and  worth,  as  well  as  that  of  others 
whose  names  follow  to  be  more  fully  written  here. 

Rev.  Robert  Stewart,  D.  D.,  who  graduated  with  first  honor  of 
Jefferson  class  of  1859,  was  the  assistant  in  1863.  His  devotion  to 
the  teacher's  work  and  skill  in  imparting  instruction  proved  him 
fully  worthy  of  the  high  trust  reposed  in  him  by  his  brethren  of 
the  U.  P.  church  in  calling  him  to  a  professorship  in  their  theolog- 
ical seminary  at  Newbury,  N.  H.,  and  afterwards  to  a  similar 
position  in  their  missionary  seminary  in  India,  where  he  is  now 
laboring  with  great  success  in  laying  broad  and  deep  the  founda- 
tions of  Zion  for  ages  to  come. 

Mr.  David  Brown  taught  music  and  assisted  in  teaching,  while 
himself  a  student  in  1864-5.  He  was  a  good  teacher.  He  has 
been  a  laborious  and  successful  missionary  and  pastor  since  he  left 
the  seminary,  and  is  now  pastor  in  Newton,  Iowa. 

50 


394  HISTORY    OF    THE 


Mr.  John  A.  Calhoun,  assisted  Mr.  Jones  during  the  summer" 
terms  of  1864  to  1866.  His  clear,  strong  reasoning  faculties,, 
quickness  of  peixeption  and  decision,  and  incisive  way  of  saying 
what  he  thought,  gave  him  peculiar  advantages  in  the  school  room.. 
He  was  afterwards  County  Superintendent  of  the  schools  of  Arm- 
strong county,  Pa,  He  graduated  at  Western  Theological  Sem- 
inary, 1866,  preached  in  sevei^al  churches  in  Missouri  and  Iowa 
until  in  1880,  in  Le  Claire,  Iowa,  when  he  fell  in  the  midst  of  his 
usefulness,  aged  forty-seven. 

Rev.  Johnston  McGaughey,  a  graduate  of  Princeton  College 
and  Seminar}',  was  the  assistant  in  1867.  His  high  standing 
in  scholarship  and  Christian  character,  and  his  perseverance  in  sur- 
mounting the  stubborn  obstacles  in  his  way  of  reaching  a  classical 
education  and  his  success  as  a  teacher  here  are  well  remembered  by 
many  more  than  his  many  relatives  living  in  this  vicinity.  For 
years  his  labors  have  been  blessed  as  a  teacher  and  preacher  in  the 
home  missionary  work  in  New  Mexico. 

On  the  i-esignation  of  Mr.  Jones  in  1865,  Rev.  G.  W.  Mechlin, 
was  selected  Principal  and  bears  the  same  relation  to  the  school  at 
this  time.  Through  the  influence  of  somebody  somewhere,  but  all 
clandestine  to  him,  the  Trustees  of  Washington  and  Jeflferson  Col- 
lege took  the  responsibility  of  placing  two  D's  to  the  end  of  his 
name.  He  is  grateful  to  them  for  their  good  intentions,  but  not 
yet  sensible  of  their  wisdom  in  the  exercise  of  their  pov/er  in  this 
instance. 

Dui-ing  the  summer  term  of  1869,  Rev.  Colbert  M.  Des  Islets- 
was  assistant  to  the  Principal.  He  derived  special  facilities  for  a 
successful  teacher  from  the  knowledge  of  the  French  language,  be- 
ing a  native  of  Quebec,  Canada,  and  his  easy  and  rapid  acquisition 
of  other  languages,  especially  Greek.  He  graduated  at  Princeton 
College  and  Seminary,  and  has,  since  he  left  us,  been  laboriously 
and  profitably  engaged  in  teaching  and  preaching  in  the  missionary 
fields  of  Iowa  and  Nebraska. 

For  the  three  following  summers  Mr.  S.  B.  Fleming,  a  student 
of  the  Western  Theological  Seminary  at  the  time,  was  the  popular 
and  useful  assistant.  His  pleasing  address,  untiring  energy  and 
high  scholarship  were  the  elements  of  his  success  as  a  teacher,  and 
also  of  his  long  time  pastorate  in  Arkansas  City,  Kansas.  He  is 
now  Synodical  Missionary  of  that  State. 


PRES'BYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  Sfi'S 

Rev.  A.  B.  Marshall,  an  alumnus  of  Princeton  College  and 
Seminary,  succeeded  Mr.  Fleming  in  1873-4.  His  cultivated  taste, 
companionable  disposition,  sincere  piety,  cheerfulness,  cordiality  and 
earnest  work  which  made  him  so  long  the  successful  and  popular 
pastor  at  New  Lisbon,  Ohio,  were  all  perceived  and  appreciated  in 
his  teaching  at  Glade  Run.  He  is  now  pastor  of  the  Presbyterian 
Church  East  Liverpool,  Ohio.  Mr.  Thomas  F.  McCune,  an  alumnus 
of  Washington  and  Jefferson,  aided  the  Principal  m  teaching  in 
1875.  As  a  scholar  and  teacher  he  was  highly  esteemed  in  the 
class  room.  He  is  now  superintendent  of  the  Asylum  for  the  blind 
of  the  State  of  Iowa,  and  is  reported  as  doing  a  good  work  there 
for  the  afflicted. 

Rev.  H.  T.  McClelland,  then  a  student  of  the  Western  Theo- 
logical Seminary,  was  the  assistant  for  the  summer  term  of  1876. 
His  experience  in  teaching  in  public  schools  and  as  a  Principal  of  a 
Freedmen's  School  In  South  Carolina,  under  the  care  of  the  Freed- 
men's  Board  were  a  good  training  for  the  efficient,  thorough  and 
lasting  good  work  he  accomplished  as  a  teacher  here.  After  a 
pastorate  at  Montours  and  the  Sixth  Church,  Pittsburgh,  of  three 
years  each,  he  has  entered  on  what  is  expected  to  be  the  great 
work  of  his  life,  the  Professorship  of  Theology  in  the  Western 
Theological  Seminary,  Allegheny,  Pa. 

In  1877,  Mr.  J.  C.  McCracken,  graduate  of  Washington  and 
Jefferson  College,  1'875,  and  Western  Theological  Sertiinary,  1878., 
was  assistant  instructor.  His  natural  tact  for  teaching,  his  thorough 
education,  his  zeal  for  the  improvement  of  his  pupils,  mentally  and 
morally,  placed  him  among  our  very  best  teachers.  He  is  now  the 
efficient  and  honored  pastor  of  Slate  Lick  and  Srader's  Grove 
churches  in  this  Presbytery. 

Mr.  W.  J.  Alexander,  a  graduate  of  Lafayette  College  and 
Union  Theological  Seminary,  was  the  assistant  in  1878.  His  high 
grade  of  scholarship  in  all  the  institutions  in  which  he  was  a  student 
and  his  enthusiasm  for  the  improvement  of  his  scholars  gave  him 
corresponding  abilities  as  a  teacher  of  the  young.  His  life  almost 
ever  since  and  now  is  devoted  to  teaching  in  a  Western  state. 

Mr.  John  S.  Helm,  an  alumnus  of  the  Washington  and  Jeffer- 
son College  and  the  Western  Theological  Seminary,  was  assistant 
in  1879,  and  during  1880-81  was  assistant  Principal  of  the  Academy 
with  charge  of  the   instruction.       A  good   education  and   untiring 


396  HISTORY    OF    THE 


labors  for  the  school,  in  and  out  of  it,  made  him  highly  acceptable 
and  successful  in  his  position  here.  His  influence  over  the  minds  of 
his  pupils  was  strong  and  good.  The  same  elements  of  character 
are  producing  similar  results  in  his  pastorate  in  Perry  and 
Punxsutawney  churches.  Presbytery  of  Clarion. 

Rev.  Adolphus  C.  Good  was  elected  by  the  Trustees  to  assist 
Mr.  Helm  in  the  summer  of  1880,  but  was  prevented  from  enter- 
ing on  the  work  because  of  sickness.  He  has  since  graduation  at 
the  Western  Theological  Seminary  been  blessed  with  great  success 
in  his  work  as  a  missionary  on  the  Gaboon  river,  West  Africa. 

Mr.  Good's  place  in  the  Academy  was  supplied  by  Rev.  W.  H. 
Robinson,  class  mate  of  Mr.  Helm  at  the  college  and  seminary. 
Mr.  R.,  from  his  amiability  of  manner,  good  scholarship  and  sin- 
cere piety,  was  a  teacher  of  superior  worth  and  influence.  He  left 
us  for  the  mission  work  with  Mr.  Good  in  West  Africa,  but  was, 
after  two  years  labor,  compelled  to  return  on  account  of  broken 
health.     He  is  now  in  the  mission  work  in  Chili,  S.  A. 

Mr.  W.  O.  Thompson,  a  graduate  of  Marshall  College,  Pa., 
and  Western  Theological  Seminary,  1882,  aided  Mr.  Helm  in  1881- 
He  is  now  pastor  of  the  Presbyterian  Church  and  President  of  a 
young  and  rising  college  at  Longmont,  Col.  The  qualifications 
and  natural  endowments  he  displayed  here  as  a  teacher  give  high 
hopes  of  his  great  success  in  his  present  important  position. 

Rev.  A.  J.  Herries,  a  graduate  of  Westminster  College  and 
Western  Theological  Seminary,  was  assistant  in  1882.  His  natural 
talents  and  scholarship  gave  him  power  to  throw  an  interest  into  a 
recitation  and  to  attract  young  minds  to  him.  Impaired  health  pre- 
vented the  full  effect  of  his  labors  here.  He  is  pastor  elect  at  El 
Paso,  111. 

Prof.  I.  N.  Sloan,  a  graduate  of  Millersville  Normal  School, 
gave  efl^cient  aid  to  the  Principal  in  1883.  Air.  S.  is  an  experienced 
and  successful  teacher.  His  drill  in  class  room  is  excellent  and 
attractive.  Suffering  fi-om  an  old  wound  he  received  in  the  army, 
while  he  was  here,  made  labor  burdensome,  yet  his  teaching  was 
profitable  to  all  whom  he  taught. 

Mr.  J.  C.  Mechlin,  a  son  of  the  Principal,  was  tutor  in  1884, 
He  is  a  graduate  of  Washington  and  Jefferson,  1883,  and  of  the 
Western  Theological  Seminary,  1887.  He  is  now  a  missionary  of 
the  Presbyterian  Board   at   Salmas,  Persia.       His  labors  here  as  a 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  897 

teacher  were  profitable  to  his  pupils  and  himself.  All  of  the  above 
teachers  are  alumni  of  the  institution,  except  Messrs.  A.  S.  Marshall, 
Shields,  Thompson,  W.  R.,  Thompson,  W.  O.,  Herries  and 
McCune.  As  they  have  returned  to  this  scene  of  their  labors  from 
time  to  time  their  voices  and  faces  are  a  pleasure  to  all  who  hear 
and  see  them. 

An  incidental  benefit  to  the  country  around  has  come  from  the 
literary  and  scientific  lectures  that  have  been  delivered  here  by  men 
high  in  their  vocation,  such  as  Rev.  S.  J.  Wilson,  D.  D.,  twice; 
Rev.  A.  McElwain,  D.  D.,  Rev.  B.  H.  Thomas,  Rev.  George 
Marshall,  D.  D.,  John  B.  Finlay,  LL.  D.,  Hon.  J.  K.  Calhoun, 
Rev.  W.  W.  Woodend,  D.  D.,  Rev.  James  S.  Elder,  Rev.  A.  B. 
Fields,  Rev.  G.  P.  Hays,  D.  D.,  twice.  Rev.  J.  J.  Marks,  D.  D., 
Rev.  James  Allison,  D.  D.,  Prof.  W.  T.  McClelland  and  others. 

LITERARY    SOCIETIES. 

The  Union  Literary  Society  was  organized  near  the  beginning 
of  the  school.  There  are  minutes  extant  for  1851,  but  those  of  a 
few  of  the  first  meetings  are  lost.  The  membership  included  the 
most  earnest  and  intelligent  students  of  the  institution.  It  has  been 
a  valuable  auxiliarv  in  training  the  young  men  in  composition,  criti- 
cism, public  speaking  and  a  knowledge  of  parliamentary  rules. 

The  Sigournian  Literary  Society  for  years  afforded  similar  in- 
centive to  literary  excellence  to  the  young  ladies. 

The  annual  exhibitions  of  the  societies  were  a  long  time  the 
principal  social  event  for  the  young  people  many  miles  around. 
None  felt  that  they  could  miss  that  display  of  budding  talent  and 
genius.  "  The  exhibition  "  called  together  larger  crowds  both  of 
young  and  old  than  any  other  occasion.  The  programs  consisted  of 
select  readings,  declamations,  essays,  orations,  Latin  and  Greek, 
with  an  occasional  one  in  German  or  French,  etc.,  and  debates 
which  often  elicited  much  interest  from  the  audience.  A  band  or 
music,  often  brass,  always  enlivened  the  entertainment  of  the 
meetings.  They  were  intellectually  and  socially,  healthful  and 
stimulating. 

LIBRARY,    ETC. 

A  valuable  selection  of    scientific,  historical,  biographical,  legal, 
theological,  literary  and   philological  works  has   been  collected  tor 


398  HISTORY    OF    THE 


the  use  of  the  pupils,  hy  means  of  the  contributions  of  friends  antl 
the  proceeds  of  lectures,  etc.  There  is  a  collection  of  maps,  charts, 
blocks,  diagrams  and  microscopes,  besides  apparatus  for  illustrating 
the  principles  of  physics,  belonging  to  the  institution,  not  large  but 
well  selecterl  and  valuable  for  illustration. 

STUDENTS. 

The  whole  number  of  pupils  who  have  been  enrolled  here  can- 
not now  be  exactly  stated.  Some  of  the  records  are  not  now 
accessible.  The  best  existing  data  give  from  twelve  to  thirteen 
hundred.  From  two  hundred  and  fifty  to  three  hundred  have 
pursued  the  usual  classical  and  mathematical  course  of  study  pre- 
paratory to  admission  into  the  undergraduate  classes  of  our  best 
colleges,  or  entrance  on  the  study  of  a  learned  profession.  A  large 
majority  of  these  have  taken  college  degrees,  and  a  large  number 
proportionately  class  honors.  Nearly  sixty  of  the  graduates  have 
entered  the  ministry  of  the  Presbyterian,  U.  P.,  M.  E.,  Lutheran, 
Baptist  and  other  churches,  besides  others  who  have  entered  the 
ministry  without  a  college  course.  Seven  have  been  or  are  foreign 
missionaries:  Rev.  F.J.  C.  Scheider,  Rev.  Robert  Stewart,  D.  D., 
Revs.  J.  M.  McCombs,  A.  C.  Good,  J.  C.  Touzeau  and  J.  C. 
Mechlin;  also  Miss  Jennie  Anderson,  (Mrs.  Laughlin.)  And  to 
these  ought  to  be  added  the  name  of  Mrs.  S.  J.  Neal,  missionary  to 
the  Freedmen,  of  whom  Dr.  Allen  said,  "  she  has  renovated  a 
county." 

Rev.  J.  H.  Marshall  and  D.  J.  Trwin  were  under  appointment 
to  that  work,  but  were  prevented  from  going  to  their  field  of  labor 
by  the  outbreaking  of  the  civil  war  in  1861.  Rev.  John  S.  Helm, 
also  under  appointment,  was  hindered  from  entering  on  the  work 
in  Africa  by  the  ill  health  of  his  wife.  With  these  might  be  classed 
Mr.  William  A.  Kelly,  who  was  two  terms  County  Superintend- 
ent in  Jefferson  county.  Pa.,  and  is  now  in  charge  of  missionary 
schools  in  Alaska,  and  one  of  the  founders  and  principal  editor  of 
the  North  Star^  a  paper  published  in  the  interest  of  Alaskan  mis- 
sions. Others  are  serving  their  generation  beneficially  as  lawyers, 
physicians,  bankers,  pastors,  professors  in  academics,  colleges  and 
theological  seminaries.  A  large  number  are  doing  life's  work  well 
as  public  school  teachers,  scientific  farmers,  enterprising  mechanics 
and  public  spirited  private  citizens. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTAXNIXG.  399 

Mention  of  Prof.  G.  C.  Stockdill's  name  may  be  made  here. 
He  was  six  years  County  Superintendent  of  the  Schools  of  Arm- 
strong county.  His  administration  was  an  earnest,  intelligent  and 
successful  effort  to  elevate  the  standard  of  education,  moral  and 
intellectual  in  teachers  and  pupils  and  the  people  of  all  classes. 
Others  are  found  earnestly  at  work  in  the  same  cause  in  our  West- 
ern States  and  in  various  other  callings  and  fields  of  labor  whose 
cultivation  demands  moral  energy  and  cultivated  minds. 

In  the  earlier  years  of  this  school's  history  pupils'  names  were 
enrolled  from  Armstrong,  Indiana,  Jefferson,  Clarion,  Westmore- 
land, Butler,  Allegheny,  Elk,  Somerset  and  other  counties  of  this 
state,  and  even  from  beyond  Pennsylvania.  The  annual  rolls  have 
varied  from  near  one  hundred  and  fifty  to  about  forty  names.  The 
decline  has  been  caused  by  the  rise  of  other  schools  after  the  model 
and  precedent  of  Glade  Run  more  than  there  are  j^upils  well  to  sus- 
tain. But  the  country  academy  and  home  school  have  been  weak- 
ened more  than  by  this  cause  by  the  policy  of  the  state  in  subsidiz- 
ing what  are  called  normal  schools  for  the  preparation  of  teachers 
for  the  public  schools,  a  policy  yet  on  trial  and  of  doubtful  success 
so  far  as  all  the  objects  of  a  literary  and  moral  education  are  in- 
volved. It  has  yet  to  be  shown,  if  it  ever  can  be  shown,  that  the 
teachers  of  the  rising  citizens  of  a  Christian  I'epublic  can  be  more 
fitly  trained  in  large  companies  necessarily  segregated,  largely  from 
the  sympathies  of  home  life,  in  institutions  which  Jews,  papists, 
infidels,  agnostics,  etc.,  claim  equal  rights  to  control  with  believers 
in  the  moral  truth  of  the  Bible  as  the  only  sure  basis  of  good  gov- 
ernment, than  in  the  home  school,  beside  the  home  church,  sur- 
rounded by  the  homes  of  the  pupils.  These  home  schools  are  in 
truth  the  natural  art-training  schools  where  the  pupils  daily  see  the 
practical  operations  of  the  farmer,  mechanic,  merchatit  and  other 
callings  in  life  and  of  the  housekeeper,  a  profession  equal  to  any 
other  in  educating  the  future  citizens  of  a  Christian  republic. 

This  school  was  founded  to  promote  Christian  not  sectarian 
education.  Its  doors  have  always  been  open  to  all  who  desired  to 
prepare  for  usefulness  in  life.  No  sectarian  test  was  ever  demanded 
of  teacher  or  pupil.  The  Biole  has  always  been  used  as  a  text 
book  to  train  the  mind  and  the  heart. 

It  was  the  first  school  of  its  kind  in  a  large  region  to  open  its 
classes  to  young  ladies  on  equal  standing  with  young  men.      'i'heir 


400  HISTORY    OF    THE 


record  here  and  elsewhere  has  prove(]  that  what  was  at  first  hy 
many  regarded  as  the  according  of  a  doubtful  privilege,  was  only  a 
natural  riglit. 

Any  institution  might  be  congratulated  by  its  friends  on  the 
progress  and  attainments  in  scholarship  and  eminence  in  usefulness 
of  its  pupils.  As  examples;  of  one  lady  missionary  to  the  Freed- 
men,  Mrs.  S.  J.  Neal,  it  has  been  said  by  the  Secretary,  "  she  has 
renovated  a  whole  county."  Another,  Miss  Jennie  Anderson, 
has  been  one  of  the  most  courageous,  cheerful  and  persevering  mis- 
sionary ladies  in  China.  Not  a  few  who  are  wives  of  home  mis- 
sionaries are  bearing  with  noble  self-denial  their  end  of  the  yoke. 
Others  as  teachers,  and  as  wives  and  mothers  at  home,  each  in  her 
sphere,  by  true  consecration  to  her  work  are  showing  their  capa- 
bility to  fill  their  places  well,  which,  after  all,  is  the  highest 
eminence  in  life. 

BUILDINGS. 

The  institution  of  learning  is  more  in  the  teachers  and  the 
scholars  than  in  boards,  or  brick,  or  stones,  or  endowments.  Yet 
all  these  are  needful  and  very  helpful.  The  first  two  years  the 
Glade  Run  Church  was  the  school  room.  In  1858,  a  substantial 
frame  building,  28  by  30  feet,  ceiling  12  feet  high,  plastered,  with 
belfry  and  bell,  was  erected,  and  is  still  used  for  recitations.  In 
1863,  an  addition  of  fifteen  feet  was  built  adjoining  the  west  square 
and  divided  into  two  recitation  rooms. 

The  building  funds  were  raised  b}'  subscription,  in  the  neigh- 
borhood of  the  academy  principally.  The  main  building  probably 
cost  not  more  than  five  to  six  hundred  dollars.  Laborers'  wages 
and  building  materials  were  cheap  at  that  time.  W.  M.  Findley 
was  the  contractor.  The  addition  cost  near  four  hundred  dollars. 
This  is  the  school  building  of  this  day. 

In  1858,  the  trustees  of  Glade  Run  church  purchased  and  com- 
pleted at  an  expense  of  about  twelve  hundred  dollars  a  large  board- 
ing house  for  young  ladies.  In  this  house  there  have  always  been 
convenient  and  cheap  facilities  for  self-boarding.  It  is  by  written 
transfer  set  over  to  the  trustees  of  the  academv  "  as  long  as  it  shall 
be  used  for  school  purposes."  It  contains  twelve  rooms  besides 
kitchen,  dining  room  and  parlor. 


PRESBYTERV    OF    KITTANNIXG.  40l 

The  trustees  built  a  "  club  house  "  in  1865  in  which  disabled 
•soldiers  obtained  rent  of  rooms  free.  The  building  is  thirty  by 
forty  feet,  two  stories,  and  plastered,  containing  eight  rooms  for 
•students,  and  two  rooms,  besides  kitchen  and  dining  room,  for  the 
•family  managing  the  club.  The  cost  was  about  one  thousand 
dollars,  a  liberal  part  of  which  was  contributed  by  good  friends  in 
Xittanning,  and  in  Concord  church.  The  builder  was  Capt.  J.  R. 
McAfoos,  It  stands  on  a  lot  of  one  acre  donated  by  Rev.  G.  W. 
Mechlin. 

On  the  same  lot  stands  another  house,  thirty  by  tv/enty-four 
feet,  built  by  Mr.  G.  W.  Goheen  to  accommodate  students  boarding 
in  the  club.  It  is  in  two  stories,  with  eight  rooms  furnished  with 
stoves  by  Mr.  Goheen.  He  afterwards  donated  it  to  the  trustees. 
Good  boarding  and  room  seldom  cost  more  than  two  dollars  per 
week.  This  institution  has  always  greatly  aided  young  people  of 
limited  means  in  obtaining  a  thorough  education. 

CHARTER. 

In  1864,  liberal  and  perpetual  articles  of  incorporation  were 
granted  to  the  trustees  by  the  court  of  Armstrong  county.  This 
gives  the  usual  power  in  such  cases,  authorizing  the  trustees  to 
hold  property,  elect  principal  and  teachers,  confer  academic  degrees, 
use  a  seal  and  other  powers  necessary  to  conduct  the  affairs  of  the 
institution.  The  number  of  trustees  is  at  present  limited  to  thirteen 
and  they  are  empowered  to  fill  vacancies  to  keep  up  the  number. 

TEXT    BOOKS. 

The  following  list  of  text  books  used  at  present  may  be  an 
interesting  relic  in  the  future  as  denoting  the  course  of  study: 
Henderson's  Test  Words;  Osgood's  Amei-ican  Fifth  Reader; 
Brooks'  New  Normal,  Mental,  and  Raub's  Arithmetic;  Geogra- 
phy, McN ally's  New  High  School  and  Academy  editions;  Eng- 
lish Grammar,  Clark  and  Reed,  and  Kellogg,  other  authors  used 
for  reference;  Methods  of  Teaching,  Raub;  Physiology  and 
Hygiene,  Steele;  Algebra,  Ray's  part  1st,  and  Loomis'  Treatise; 
Geometry,  Trigonometry  and  Surveying,  Loomis;  Natural  Philoso- 
phy, Steele;  Latin  Grammar,  First  Latin  Book  and  First  Greek 
Book,  Harkness;  Caesar,  Virgil,  Horace,  Cicero's  Orations,  Chase 
and  Stuart,  or  Harkness;  Greek  Grammar,  Hadley  or  Goodwin; 
Zenophon's  Anabasis,  Boise,  thi-ee  books;  Homer,  and  Arnold's 
Greek  and  Latin  Prose  Composition. 

Glade  Run,  Jatiuary^  1888.  51 


402  HISTORY    OF    THE 


LEECHBURG    INSTITUTE. 


BY   JAMES    F.    M  KEE. 


The  first  session  of  the  Leechburg  Institute  for  both  sexes  was- 
opened  in  April,  1853.  Chiefly  instrumental  in  the  founding  oi 
the  school  were  Daniel  Zimmerman,  Rev.  Jacob  Zimmerman^ 
Robert  Thorn,  D.  McKee,  Mrs.  Fitzgerald,  Wm.  R.  Trout,  and 
perhaps  some  others  whose  names  cannot  now  be  recalled.  A.  S.- 
Thorn,  a  student  in  the  Western  Theological  Seminary,  was  prin- 
cipal, assisted  by  Robert  Thorn  and  D.  McKee,  this  arrangement 
continuing  essentially  the  same  until  the  close  of  the  fall  term  of 
1854,  when  A.  S.  Thorn  returned  to  the  seminary  and  D.  McKee 
became  principal  and  continued  in  charge  until  1862. 

For  several  years  the  school  was  held  in  a  building  belonging 
to  Mrs.  Fitzgerald,  in  Westmoreland  county,  h;lf  a  mile  south- 
west of  Leechburg,  and  for  a  term  or  two  in  a  room  in  the 
Weinel  House  at  Weinel's  Cross  Roads.  During  the  summer 
session  of  1855,  Prof.  McKee  was  assisted  by  his  brother,  James  F. 
McKee.  Of  the  assistants  during  1856,  no  information  is  at  hand. 
The  summer  session  of  1858,  W.  J.  K.  Kline,  now  of  Greensburg, 
was  assistant,  followed  in  1859  by  James  F.  McKee,  and  in  1860, 
by  A.  H.  Brown.  During  these  years  the  attendance  was  large 
and  the  course  of  instruction  was  noted  for  its  thoroughness. 

Among  those  in  attendance  whose  names  are  recalled  may  be 
mentioned  Revs.  James  S.  Hawk,  now  deceased,  Jacob  J.  Hawk, 
T.  B.  Anderson  and  J.  C.  Evans;  lawyers  G.  S.  Crosby  and  M. 
F.  Leason,  and  Dr.  J.  C.  Wilson.  As  we  are  forced  to  rely  upon 
memory  in  these  matters,  we  doubtless  omit  names  that  should 
appear. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  40B 

In  1861-2,  owing  to  the  hearty  response  of  the  students  to  the 
call  of  our  country  for  soldiers,  the  attendance  was  not  so  large. 
In  this  connection  it  may  be  stated  that  of  thirty-eight  names  of 
Tcnales  in  attendance  during  the  summer  of  1859,  fourteen  became 
soldiers,  few,  if  any,  of  the  others  being  eligible  to  military  service. 

In  1858,  a  new  building  having  been  erected  in  Leechburg,  the 
>chool  was  continued  in  it  until  1862,  when,  for  reasons  with  which 
we  are  not  familiar,  the  Academy  building  was  sold  at  sheriff's  sale 
and  bought  by  the  Presbyterians. 

Up  to  this  time  the  school  had  been  distinctly  Union,  but  sup- 
ported principally  by  the  Presbyterians  and  Lutherans,  The  latter 
now  erected  a  building  which,  as  the  "  old  academy,"  has  been 
familiar  to  ail  dwellers  in  Leechburg  and  vicinity,  and  which,  in 
1887,  was  removed  to  give  place  to  the  new  Hebron  Lutheran 
church.  The  Presbyterian  Academy  building  after  being  used  for 
a  time  as  a  dwelling  house,  was  burned  about  ten  years  ago. 

Of  the  Lutheran  Academy,  Prof.  D.  McKee  continued  as  prin- 
cipal until  1867,  After  this  it  was  open  several  terms,  but  not  con- 
tinuously, being  taught  by  Rev.  A.  W.  McCullough,  Messrs. 
Robert  and  William  McCaslin,  Mr.  W.  T.  Garroway  and  others. 
Mr.  McKee  has  been  for  many  years  a  professor  in  Theil  College, 
Greenville,  Pa. 

In  the  school  under  the  control  of  the  Presbyterians  during  the 
winter  of  1862,  Rev.  J.  E.  Caruthers,  pastor  of  the  Presbyterian 
church,  taught  the  languages  and  Miss  Martha  Foley  taught  the 
other  branches,  and  had  the  actual  control  of  the  school.  In  the 
spring  of  1863,  T.  A.  McCurd}',  now  Dr.  McCurdy,  president  of 
Macalester  College,  took  charge,  assisted  by  Miss  Foley,  and  Miss 
Lizzie  Woodend  as  music  teachei*.  During  the  following  winter, 
S.  A.  McClung,  now  a  lawyer  in  Pittsburgh,  Pa.,  had  charge,  and 
in  the  summer  of  1864,  Mr.,  now  Rev.  Virgil  G.  Sheely,  was  in 
chai-ge,  Miss  Foley  being  still  assistant,  and  Miss  Annie  Martin 
being  teacher  of  music.  During  the  winter  following,  1864-5,  so 
far  as  we  can  learn,  Mr.  Caruthers  and  Miss  Foley  were  again  in 
charge.  In  the  summer  of  1865,  George  W.  Riggle,  a  student 
from  the  Western  Theological'  Seminary,  was  in  charge.  He  is 
now  a  Presbyterian  minister.  Mr.  J.  G.  D.  Findley,  since  a  lawyer 
in  Freeport  and  now  deceased,  took  charge  in  the  fall  of  1865,  and 
remained  in  control  till  the   spring  of  1868,  when  W.  J.  Bollman 


^(K  HISTORY    OF    THE 


(now  Rev.  and  college  professor),  took  charge,  assisted  by  Miss- 
Lida  Brown,  (now  Mrs.  Rev.  T.  B.  Anderson).  During  the 
winter  of  1868-9,  Miss  Brown  had  charge,  and  in  the  spring,  Mr., 
now  Rev.,  T.  B.  Anderson  became  principal  for  the  summer 
session,  and  with  this  session  the  existence  of  the  school  may  be 
said  to  have  closed. 

Owing  to  the  impossibility  of  obtaining  official  statistics  we 
have  been  largely  dependent  upon  memory  and  the  assistance  of 
friends,  hence  there  are  doubtless  many  things  overlooked  which 
would  have  added  to  the  interest  of  the  story,  and  there  may  pos- 
sibly be  a  few  slight  inaccuracies,  but  we  think  it  will  be  found 
substantially  conect. 

Although  of  such  brief  existence  this  school  was  of  incalcula- 
ble benefit  to  the  community,  and  it  is  a  cause  of  deepest  regret 
that  with  such  a  record  and  with  such  promise  for  the  future,  it 
should  so  soon  have  closed  its  career. 

The  roll  for  the  summer  term  of  1859,  which  is  still  extant, 
shows  an  attendance  of  thirty-eight  males  and  twenty  females. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  405 


INDIANA  CLASSICAL  SCHOOL 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


BY    REV.    A.    m'eLWAIN,    D.    D. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 


A  school  was  greatly  needed  in  the  borough  of  Indiana,  to  give 
instruction  in  the  higher  branches  to  young  men  and  boys  prepar- 
ing for  college,  or  looking  forward  to  some  of  the  profesions.  To 
answer  this  demand  the  old  Academy  was  reopened,  November  7, 
1855,  by  Rev.  Andrew  McElwain,  A.  M.,  as  principal,  and  Silas 
M.  Clark,  A.  M.,  W.  P.  Moore  and  James  A.  Ewing,  at  different 
times  as  teachers.  This  school  was  sustained  successfully  for 
about  two  or  three  years,  and  was  introductory  to  the  subsequent 
developments. 


406  HISTORY    OF    THE 


SALTSBURG    ACADEMY    OR    MEMORIAL 
INSTITUTE. 


BY    MRS.    ELLEN    M.    LAIRD, 


"  How  empty  learning,  and  how  vain  is  art, 

But  as  it  mends  the  life,  and  guides  the  heart." 

The  winter  of  1851,  a  bevy  of  friends  met  at  a  social  enter- 
tainment. Education  being  one  of  the  topics  discussed,  the  conver- 
sation drifted  into  the  great  necessity  there  was  for  a  more  liberal 
education  for  the  youth  of  Saltsburg  and  vicinity  than  could  be 
acquired  imder  the  public  school  system  of  that  time.  It  was  sug- 
gested that  a  select  school  of  a  mixed  character  might  in  some 
measure  obviate  the  difficulty.  This  suggestion  assumed  tangible 
form  in  May  following,  when  a  select  school  was  commen-^ed  in 
the  basement  of  the  old  Presbyterian  church,  golden  link  between 
the  past  and  present,  the  birth-place  of  many  souls.  The  late 
Rev.  W.  W.  VVoodend,  D.  D.,  (the  invincible  in  whatever  he 
undertook),  was  chosen  principal,  and  Prof.  J.  W.  Winters,  A.  B., 
assistant  teacher,  Mr,  Winters  left  at  the  close  of  the  summer 
term  to  enter  the  theological  seminary,  and  Mr.  John  White  (now 
in  the  ministry)  filled  the  vacancy  during  the  v\'inter  term,  the 
school  having  been  removed  to  the  public  school   building. 

This  school  proved  the  nucleus  of  the  Saltsburg  Academy, 
While  the  patrons  of  education  were  musing  "  the  fire  burned." 
Without  delay  money  was  subscribed,  ground  procured,  and  in  a 
brief  time  the  building  was  completed  under  the  skilful  manage- 
ment of  the  contractor,  the  late  Major  S,  S,  Jamison,  a  gentleman 
of  "  3-e  olden  time,"  whose  public  spirit   and   energy   forbade  him 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  407 

ever  being  caught  among  the  drift,  but  always  paddling  his  life- 
boat on  the  crest  of  the  wave,  and  would  never  yield  to  the  cry, 
"  Hold,  enough,"  at  the  nod  of  any  "  Macduff."  He  was  gathered 
at  a  "  full  age  like  as  a  shock  of  corn  cometh  in,  in  his  season." 
His  eldest  son,  Col.  Benton  K.  Jamison,  who  is  quite  extensively 
known  in  business  circles,  was  then  but  a  lad  and  he  and  his 
brothers,  John  C.  and  Samuel  S.  strengthened  tlieir  muscles  by 
wheeling  the  brick,  and  were  afterwards  enrolled  among  the 
students  of  the  Academy. 

The  building  contained  two  ample  apartments,  one  on  the  first 
door  to  be  used  for  the  male  department  and  a  similar  one  on  the 
second  floor  for  a  female  seminary.  Besides  there  were  recitation 
and  music  rooms,  library,  in  a  word,  all  the  necessary  appointments 
for  a  first  class  Academy  where  young  men  could  be  prepared  for 
college,  and  young  ladies  complete  the  prescribed  curriculum  as 
found  in  the  most  approved  female  seminaries.  Degrees  were  con- 
ferred when  the  course  was  completed. 

In  the  spring  of  1852  the  Academy  was  formally  opened,  the 
Rev.  W.  D.  Moore,  now  a  prominent  lawyer  at  the  Alleghenv 
County  Bar,  delivering  the  address.  The  late  Rev.  W.  W.  Wood- 
end,  D.  D.,  principal  and  teacner  of  the  classics,  was  assisted  by 
Prof.  W.  Lyons  in  the  male  department,  and  by  Miss  Amanda 
Christy,  graduate  of  Washington  Female  Seminary,  in  the  Semi- 
nary department;  music  on  piano  and  guitar  included.  The  semi- 
annual examination  and  exhibition  were  held  at  the  conclusion  of 
the  summer  term.  Miss  Amanda  Christy,  realizing,  "  It  is  not 
good  that  the  'woman'  should  be  alone,"  became  the  wife  of  Prof, 
John  A.  Brown,  A.  B.,  now  the  Rev.  J.  A.  Brown,  of  Arvilla, 
Dakota.  At  the  commencement  of  the  winter  term  they  conjointly 
took  charge  of  the  Academy.  Assistants,  Mr.  B.  L.  Sibbett,  of 
Shippensburg,  and  Miss  Mar}^  B.  Christy,  graduate  of  Washing- 
ton Female  Seminary;  Mrs.  A.  C.  Brown,  teacher  of  instrumental 
music,  Mr.  B.  F.  Coe,  vocal  music,  and  Mr.  F.  W.  Merrin,  draw- 
ing and  painting.  Mr.  Sibbett  withdrew  at  the  close  of  the  winter 
term,  and  the  vacancy  was  filled  by  Mr.  A,  J.  Elliott,  A.  B.,  a  can- 
didate for  the  ministery,  who,  during  the  summer,  fell  a  prey  to 
dysentery.  The  stern  messenger  entered  his  chamber  in'  the 
academy  building  and  revoked  his  ministerial  call,  and  he  was  called 
into  the  presence-chamber  of  the  King  of  Glory.  Mr.  A.  S. 
Marshall,  A.  B.,  now  in  the  ministry,  succeeded  him. 


408  HISTORY    OF    THE 


The  first  catalogue  was  printed  in  1858,  and  enrolled  118 
students,  and  contained  the  names  of  the  original  Board  of  Trustees, 
viz:  William  Stewart,  President; John  F.  Kirkpatrick,  Secretary; 
James  B.  Porter,  Treasurer;  Adam  Robinson,  James  W.  Robin- 
son, John  M.  Marshall,  Rev.  W.  W.  Woodend  and  John  McFar- 
land,^  M.  D." 

Prior  to  this  period,  the  Union  Literary  Society  had  been  or- 
ganized by  the  gentlemen,  and  the  Resh  Literary  Society  by  the 
ladies.  These  societies  proved  important  adjuncts,  cultivating  a 
taste  for  composition  and  declamation,  (sources  of  improvement 
too  often  the  student's  great  aversion),  which  imparted  interest  to 
the  exhibitions. 

J.  M.  Kirkpatrick,  Esq.,  now  ex-Judge  of  Allegheny  county, 
delivered  the  address  before  the  Union  Literary  Society  at  the  first 
annual  exhibition,  September  30,  1852;  subject,  "  Youth  Time  in 
Life,"  an  address  worthy  the  author  and  the  occasion.  When  he 
would  point  his  youthful  auditory  to  the  foot  prints  of  the  great 
men  whose  names  are  written  in  the  "Book  of  the  Deathless,"  he 
did  not  conduct  them  along  flowery  paths,  nor  rest  them  in  Eden 
bowers.  But  he  led  thein  into  life's  rugged  highway,  that  civic 
battlefield,  where  "to  do  and  to  dare"  courage  must  be  the  watch- 
word, where  many  in  vouth  time  fall  hors-de-combat^  and,  like 
Milton's  "fallen  cherub,"  fall  to  rise  no  more. 

An  interesting  performance  at  an  exhibition  was  the  Biblical 
dialogue  between  Goliffth  of  Gath  and  David,  the  stripling  vShep- 
herd  boy.  The  late  Rev.  Henry  White,  then  a  student,  figured  as 
Goliath,  and  Mr.  David  L.  Robinson,  yet  in  the  vigor  of  life,  per- 
sonated the  youthful  David,  both  fine  specimens  of  their  ancient 
prototypes.  This  far  away  scene  was  so  uniquely  reproduced  that 
it  was  indeed  an  object  lesson  for  the  audience,  teaching  that  "  God 
hath  chosen  the  weak  things  of  the  world  to  confound  the  things 
which  are  mighty,"  "  that  no  flesh  should  glory  in   his  presence." 

In  process  of  time  these  societies  took  advantage  of  the  "art 
preservative,"  and  had  their  literary  productions  printed  in  pamphlet 
form.  The  Resh  Literary  Society  edited  one  entitled,  "Gathered 
Leaves;"  after  the  societies  were  consolidated  they  edited  "  The 
Literary  Illuminator,"  and  the  "Regulator."  These  spicy  little 
pamphlets  contain  interesting  school  history,  but  we  have  not  space 
for  extracts.     The  pages  of  the  "Gathered  Leaves''  were  illuminat- 


•PKESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  40§ 

-ed  by  scintillations  of  thought  which  evinced  a  "Regulator"  at  the 
helm.  Miss  Martha  A,  Mcllwain,  first  editress  of  the  "Gathered 
Leaves,"  soon  after  graduating,  was  plucked  like  the  early  flower 
when  the  dew  of  youth  was  })et  upon  her  brow,  and  she  now  be^ 
holds  the  "tree  of  life  whose  leaves  wither  never."  Second  editress, 
Miss  Kate  Kirkpatrick,  daughter  of  the  late  Rev.  David  Kirkpat- 
rick,  D.  D.,  and  consort  of  the  Rev.  Mr.  David  Pollock,  U.  P, 
minister,  was  fatally  burned,  and  through  this  baptism  of  fire  the 
young  wife  and  mother  passed  into  her  reward, 

"Her  life  ^v'as  as  a  sacred  stream, 

In  whose  calm  depth  the  beautiful  and  pure 

Alone  are  mirrored." 

Miss  Mary  E.  Brown,  editress  of  the  "Illuminator,"  soon  afte? 
marriage  with  Mr.  D.  Highberger,  -"fell  on  sleep," 
"A  gentle  wafting  to  immortal  life." 

Prof.  John  A.  Brown  and  lady,  with  their  assistants,  resigned  in 
1855,  to  enter  upon  their  life  work.  The  Rev.  A.  S.  Marshall  and 
Miss  Mary  B.  Christy  were  united  in  wedlock.  These  teachers 
were  succeeded  by  Prof.  James  H.  Stokes,  A.  M.,  Miss  Mary  J. 
Dunlap,  a  graduate  of  Steubenville  Female  Seminary,  and  Miss 
Mary  P.  Lowry.  Miss  Anna  McDowell  taught  the  music,  vocai 
and  instrumental;  Miss  Martha  J.  Stewart,  drav/ing  and  painting. 
During  the  winter  of  1856,  whilst  these  teachers  conducted  the 
school,  the  Spirit's  power  was  visible  in  the  community,  the  churches 
were  revived  and  the  students  were  also  participants  of  this  heaven^- 
ly  unction.  !Many,  especially  in  the  Seminary,  professed  Christ, 
and  can  revert  to  this  revival  season  in  the  Saltsburg  Academy,  as 
their  halcyon  days.  Miss  Mary  J.  Dunlap,  a  lady  of  very  pro- 
nounced Christian  character,  spent  much  of  her  time  in  prayer  and 
pious  conversation  with  her  scholars.  "A  prayer  meeting  was  or-- 
ganized  which  continued  throughout  the  session."  Not  long  after, 
'^'wearisome  nights''  were  her  appointment;  the  conflict  over,  she 
now  walks  "By  living  streams  among  the  trees  of  life."  Some  of 
those  young  converts  have  also  crossed  the  "Bridge  of  Death,"  and 
may  be  among  the  stars  that  adorn  her  heavenly  crown. 

These  teachers,  with  the  worthy  principal,  the  late  Rev.  W. 
W.  Woodend,  D.  D.,  resigned  about  1857.  Prof.  J.  H.  Stokes  and 
Miss  Anna  McDowell  were  united  in  marriage  and  took  charge  ot 
a  school  in  Nashville,  Tenn. 

I  52 


4l0  HISTORY    OF    THE 


Prof.  Danna  assumed  the  principalship,  with  Miss  Nannie 
Mcjunkin,  a  graduate  of  the  institution,  as  his  assistant,  and  Miss- 
Danna  music  teacher.  The  Professor  and  his  daughter  remained 
during  the  summer  term  and  the  vacancy  was  filled  by  Professor 
George  W.  Chalfant,  A.  B.,  and  Miss  Sarah  E,  Moore,  a  grad- 
uate of  the  institution,  teacher  of  vocal  and  instrumental  music. 
Miss  N.  Mcjunkin  retired  at  the  close  of  the  winter  term,  and  was 
succeeded  by  Miss  Rebekah  F.  Lloyd,  a  graduate  of  Washington 
Female  Seminary,  who  taught  throughout  the  summer  term.  Miss 
Maria  J.  Robinson,  a  graduate  of  the  institution,  was  the  next 
assistant,  and  Miss  S.  E.  Moore  resigning,  she  also  conducted  the 
music. 

The  eighth  anniversary  of  the  Union  Literary  Society  occurred 
at  this  period.  The  following  question  for  debate  is  found  on  the 
programs,  viz:  "Are  all  mankind  descended  from  one  pair?'*" 
AfHrm,  J.  K.  Warren;  deny,  J.  E.  Lapsley.  It  would  doubtless 
be  interesting  could  the  negative  argument  be  reproduced,  that  we 
might  learn  how  the  student  three  decades  ago  would  discuss  this 
knotty  question.  If  all  mankind  are  not  descended  from  one  pair, 
from  whom,  or  from  whence  did  they  come;  would  seem  to  be  a 
poser  in  view  of  the  long  established  theory.  Perhaps  this  youth- 
ful debater  was  not  confined  to  one  lost  link  in  his  chain  of  argu- 
ment, and  succeeded  in  convincing  the  audience  that  Adam  and 
Eve  had  many  coevals  with  whom  to  divide  the  honor  True, 
the  student  of  divinity  was  then  taught  that  it  was  more  im- 
portant for  "Adam's  lost  race"  to  consider  whither  they  are  going 
than  to  spend  precious  time  studying  absurd  theories  in  regard  to 
the  origin  of  the  race,  since  the  Bible  accepted  dogma  has  long 
been  considered  sufficiently  authentic. 

The  last  named  teachers  resigned  and  ere  long  bridal  robes  gave 
the  clew.  Professor  G.  W.  Chalfant  and  Miss  Sarah  E.  Moore 
were  married  in  1859.  After  completing  his  theological  course, 
he  entered  upon  the  responsible  duties  of  the  ministry,  his  present 
charge  being  Park  Avenue  church,  East  End,  Pittsburgh.  Two 
of  their  "love  knots,"  Rev.  William  P.  Chalfant  and  Rev.  Francis 
H.  Chalfant  are  at  present  missionaries  to  China.  Miss  Marie  J. 
Robinson  found  her  affinity  in  Mr.  David  Galbraith,  a  prominent 
railroad  official. 

Prof.  J.  Williams,  wife  and  daughter,  conducted   the    Academy 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  4ll 

for  two  years.  Prof.  A.  S.  Foster,  A.  B.,  and  assistants,  one  year. 
He  left  to  complete  the  theolooical  course,  and  is  at  present  settled 
xt  Pipe  Stone,  Minn. 

Mr.  Albert  H.  Brown,  A.  B,,  taught  one  term,  and  entered  Prince- 
ton Theological  Seminary.  Ere  long  lung  trouble  developed  and 
he  was  brought  home  an  invalid.  Medical  skill  and  the  kind  min- 
istration of  loved  ones  could  not  stay  the  ravages  of  that  fatal  disease 
which  plucks  its  choicest  flowers  from  the  garden  of  youth.  Even 
death  did  not  mar  liis  manly  beaut}',  but  he  seemed 

"Like  one  who  wraps  the  drapery  of  his  couch, 
About  him  and  lies  down  to  pleasant  dreams." 

Prof.  J.  M.  Foster,  A.  M.,  was  elected  principal  of  the 
Academy  in  1864,  and  remained  three  years,  assisted  by  Miss  Kate 
J.  Moore,  a  graduate  of  the  institution.  Miss  Mary  J.  Williams 
was  music  teacher  the  first  year.  Miss  Augusta  Potts  and  Miss  Lida 
Lane,  the  second,  and  Miss  Emma  J.  Ogden,  the  third,  afterwards 
a  medical  missionary  to  India,  under  the  care  of  the  M.  E.  church 
until,  health  failing,  she  returned  to  her  native  land.  During  these 
years  a  destiny  was  shaping  and  eventually  the  Gordian  knot  was 
tied  which  bound  Prof.  J.  A-l.  Foster  and  Miss  Kate  J.  Moore  "in 
the  bundle  of"  wedded  "life." 

It  will  doubtless  be  apparent  to  the  reader  of  this  part  of  our 
history  that  the  Academy  has  been  under  a  cloud,  the  frequent 
change  of  teachers,  want  of  patronage,  etc.  Ah,  yes,  that  por- 
tentous war  cloud  had  bui'st  upon  our  beloved  land.  The  young 
men  had  responded  to  their  country's  call  and  had  gone  to  the 
front,  had  exchanged  the  cjuietude  of  the  school  room  for  the  din  of 
battle  and  the  clash  of  arms.  The  daughters  were  needed  to  abide 
"by  the  stuff"  and  often  with  their  deft  hands  to  scrape  the  lint  and 
prepare  the  delicacies  for  our  disabled  soldiery.  These  students 
went  but  returned  no  more  to  classic  halls.  Some  fill  unknown 
graves,  the  bones  of  others  have  bleached  where  no  tear-be- 
dimmed  eye  ever  beheld  them;  yet  they  have  not  been  "unwept, 
unhonored,  and  unsung,"  by  their  grateful  countrymen. 

One  of  the  first  students  merits  special  notice  in  this  history.  His 
farewell  to  loved  ones  was  final.  The  parental  hearts  grew  faint 
with  waiting  and  their  eyes  grew  dim  with  watching,  yet  no  tidings 
came  and  they  "died  without  the  sight."  The  following  inscrip- 
tion is  found  on  the  family   monument  in  Edgewood  cemetery: — 


4i2  nrsTORY  of  the 


"In  memoriam,  B.  Foster  Robinson,  Co.  I,  Eleventh  Regiment,  Pennsyl- 
vania Volunteers.  Born,  July  10,  1842;  enlisted  August  28,  1861;  wounded 
and  prisoner  at  battle  of  Bull  Run,  Va.,  August  30,  1862.  Wounded  and 
missing  at  battle  of  Fredericksburg,  Va.,  December  13,  1862.  "He  rests 
•where  he  wearied,  and  lies  where  he  fell." 

The  spring  of  1867,  the  trustees  of  the  Academy  were  seeking 
for  a  competent  person  to  conduct  the  institution.  Prof.  S.  B» 
Mercer,  A.  M.,  of  Uniontown,  Fayette  county,  being  recommend- 
ed as  a  successful  educator^  through  the  influence  of  Prof.  J.  M. 
Foster  and  the  late  Rev.  VV.  W,  Woodend,  D.  D.,  his  services  w^ere 
procured.  At  the  April  term  he  assumed  the  principalship  of  the 
Academy.  His  first  assistant,  Miss  Hattie  Hughes,  daughter  of 
the  late  Rev»  Watson  Hughes,  of  f I'agrant  memory,  remained  one 
term  and  was  succeeded  by  Miss  Sarah  M.  Alexander,  daughter  of 
the  late  Rev.  James  A.  Alexander,  D,  D.,  who  assisted  in  the  var- 
ious departments.  Gifted  with  a  voice  of  unusual  volume  and  cul- 
ture, and  kindly  leading  in  the  songs  of  the  sanctuary,  she  was  an 
important  factor  in  that  delightful  part  of  divine  worship.  She 
remained  several  sessions.  Soon  after  her  retirement  orange  blos- 
soms were  in  order,  and  she  was  united  in  marriage  with  Mr.  Daniel 
Rhea,  an  elder  in  the  Presbyterian  church, —  a  man  whose  exem- 
plary Christian  life  is  his  best  eulogy.  Miss  Frances  Lester  filled 
the  vacancy  for  two  years  and  having  a  superior  musical  education, 
she  proved  a  successful  teacher.  She  too  followed  the  path  so  often 
trodden  by  teachers  and  pupils,  in  the  annals  of  our  history,  and 
formed  a  marital  relation  with  Mr.  Thomas  M.  Robinson,  then  a 
prosperous  business  man. 

During  these  years  the  Academy  resumed  much  of  its  former 
prosperity;  the  adverse  circumstances  with  which  some  of  the 
teachers  had  to  contend,  had  disappeared.  Peace  and  prosperity 
again  spread  their  dove-like  wings  over  our  goodly  land,  and  the 
youth  sought  the  halls  of  learning.  Prof.  S.  B.  Mercer  resigned 
in  1870,  to  return  after  the  Academy  will  have  received  a  new 
name. 

While  this  institution  maintained  the  Seminary  department,  six 
classes  of  young  ladies  graduated  and  left,  better  qualified  to 
act  well  their  part  on  the  world's  wide  theatre.  Some  of  them 
passed  through  the  vale  in  youth's  bright  morn,  when  life's  voyage 
seemed  but  a  pleasure  trip  in  a  fairy  boat  race  over  a — 
"Sunlit  sea  with  a  flowing  tide." 


PRKSBYTERY    OF    KITTANNIXG.  413 

MEMORIAL    INSTITUTE. 

At  this  epoch  in  the  history  we  present  to  the  reader  the 
Memorial  Institute.  Thougli  the  name  be  changed  the  theme  is 
not. 

After  the  Presbyterian  reunion  in  1869,  the  General  Assembly 
having  decided  to  raise  a  memorial  fund  of  five  million  dollars, 
Theological  Seminaries,  Colleges,  etc.,  were  designated  as  accepta- 
ble objects  for  offerings,  when  chartered,  and  donated  as  property 
to  the  Presbyterian  church.  In  accordance  with  this  ruling  the 
Presbyterian  congregation  of  Saltsburg  purchased  the  Saltsburg 
Academy  and  appurtenances. 

Several  hundred  dollars  were  subscribed  to  repair  and  refurnish 
the  building.  The  late  Rev.  W.  W.  Woodend,  D.  D.,  superintend- 
ing the  work,  the  building  and  grounds  were  put  in  proper  order, 
pastor  and  people  desiring  to  present  a  clean  offering  unto  the 
Lord. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  William  I.  Sterett,  it  was  resolved  that  a 
public  meeting  be  called,  April  8,  1871,  for  the  dedication  of  the 
Memorial  building.  At  this  time  the  name  was  changed  to  the 
Memorial  Institute^  the  Rev.  George  P.  Hays,  D.  D.,  delivering 
the  dedicatory  sermon.  Gifted  with  rare  descriptive  powers,  he 
portrayed  in  a  graphic  manner,  the  dedication  of  that  grandest  of 
temples  projected  by  the  "sweet  singer  of  Israel,"  and  completed 
by  King  Solomon.  Having  donned  its  new  dress,  with  new  name 
and  charter,  the  Institute  was  donated  as  part  of  the  Saltsbui-g 
Presbyterian  congregation's  memorial  offering. 

"Honor  to  whom  honor  is  due."  When  this  change  was  being 
made  some  of  the  original  stockholders,  who  were  not  members  of 
the  Presbyterian  church,  voluntarily  transferred  their  stock,  in 
whole  or  in  part,  to  the  committee  having  the  business  in  charge. 
One  of  these  gentlemen,  Mr.  Hail  Clark,  is  yet  a  prominent  citizen 
of  Saltsburg,  and  one  of  the  former  trustees  of  the  Academy.  The 
Institute  is  now  church  property  in  care  of  the  trustees,  with  a 
board  of  managers,  elected  by  the  congregation. 

Public  worship  was  held  in  the  Memorial  Institute  while  the 
new  Presbyterian  church  was  being  built.  Happy  day,  when  there 
was  but  one  step  between  pastor  and  people;  no  pew  owners,  nor 


414  HISTORY    OF    THE 


h)c,^h  bncked  seats  to  intercept  the  flow  of  brotherly  love  !  A  com- 
munism where  all  were  on  a  level.  We  did  seem  like  "one  family 
of  the  living  God." 

"Sweet  the  moments  rich  in  blessing, 
Which  before  the  cross  are  spent." 

Oh!  that  the  time  might  come  to  all  our  churches  when  less 
money  would  be  spent  on  lofty  spires,  and  needless  church  trappings 
and  the  pulpits  be  endowed  that  free  pews  and  ''free-  grace"  might 
prove  the  twin  graces  which  would  "beguile"  the  multitudes  to  the 
sanctuary! 

The  late  Rev.  W.  W.  VVoodend,  D.  !>.,  was  chosen  principal 
of  the  Memorial  Institute,  in  1871.  Bv  his  untiring  zeal  for  the 
prosperity  of  this  institution  it  may  be  said  that  his  "hand  laid  the 
foundation,"  and  placed  the  cap-stone,  and  over  it  "he  kept  both 
watch  and  ward." 

Dr.  F.  H.  Dow  and  lady  were  the  first  teachers  having  charge 
of  the  institute,  impaired  health  having  compelled  his  resignation. 
Miss  Olie  Whigam,  music  teacher^  also  retired,  and  Prof.  R.  H. 
Howey  and  lady  filled  the  vacancy  imtil  he  left  to  complete  the 
Theological  course,  after  which  he  went  west,  and  is  at  present 
superintendent  of  Public  Instruction  at  Helena,  Montana. 

Prof.  S.  B,  Mercer,  A.  M.,  like  Cincinnatus,  left  the  plough  and 
took  charge  of  the  Institute  till  1875,  when  he  resigned  and  Mr. 
R.  E.  Anderson,  A.  B.,  taught  during  the  summer  term,  entered 
the  Theological  Seminary,  and  Mr.  G.  C.  Mcjunkin,  A.  B.,  suc- 
ceeded him.  Prof.  W.  I.  Alexander,  A.  M.,  leased  the  Institute, 
hut  retired  to  assume  tho  principalship  of  the  Beaver  public  school. 
Miss  Sarah  L.  McGee  from  Geneseo,  New  York,  a  lady  of  super- 
ior endowments,  conducted  the  school  for  a  time,  but  left  to  take 
charge  of  a  select  school  in  Alleglieny  City.  Prof.  J.  H.  Elwood, 
A.  B.  succeeded  her  and  on  his  retirement  Prof.  S.  B.  Mercer,  A. 
M.,  again  stepped  to  the  front  and  conducted  the  institution  till 
1886,  when  he  resigned  to  be  seen  no  more  on  the  historic  page  of 
the  Memorial  Institute,  having  become  a  "Knight  of  the  Quill," 
and  editor  of  the  Saltsburg  Press.  Professors  E.  L.  Earhart,  A. 
B.,  of  Greenville,  and  E.  B.  Earhart,  A.  B.,  of  Saltsburg,  conduct- 
ed the  school  consecutively  for  a  period. 

The  teachers  lattei^y  have  not  had  a  permanent  connection  with 
tnis  institution,  not  for  want  of  proper  qualification,  but  the  Institutie 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  415 


has  had  two  powerful  rivals  in  our  greatly  improved  public 
school  system,  and  in  the  State  Normal  Schools.  The  managers 
have  secured  the  !^ervice  of  Prof.  J.  M.  Foster,  A.  M.,  a  former 
principal,  who  has  opened  the  Institute  with  flattering  prospects. 
May  his  retin-n  after  twenty  years  of  successful  educational  work 
elsewhere  bring  back  to  this  institution  at  least  a  measure  of  its 
former  prosperity  and  usefulness. 

By  this  resume  of  the  Saltsburg  Academy,  or  Memorial  Insti- 
tute, would  space  permit  us  to  record  all  the  facts  collected,  it 
would  be  apparent  that  it  has  been  a  public  benefactor.  The  stu- 
dents have  received  both  a  Christian  and  a  secular  education  within 
its  halls.  Many  j'outh  who  had  not  the  means  at  command  to  go 
abroad  have  received  an  education  in  this  home  institution,  which 
has  qualified  them  to  fill  important  positions  to  which 
thev  could  not  have  attained  without  it.  The  literary  spark  here 
kindled  has  been  fanned  into  a  flame  at  the  College,  and  the  Theo- 
logical Seminary,  so  that  many  of  its  students  art;  found  in  all  the 
learned  professions;  yea,  some  of  them  have  told  and  are  telling  at 
home  and  in  distant  lands  the  "old,  old  story,  of  Jesus  and  His 
love." 

Should  IcTiabod  be  written  of  the  Memorial  Institute,  and  it, 
(for  reasons  already  assigned),  be  found  among  the  wrecks  of  the 
nineteenth  century,  its  honorable  alumni  need  not  blush  for  their 
Alma  mater. 

There  is  yet  a  significant  item  which  has  been  reserved  until  near 
the  close  of  the  historj^,  namel}',  that  John  McFarland,  M.  D.,  is 
the  only  surviving  member  of  the  original  board  of  trustees, 
and  is  at  present  one  of  the  managers  of  the  Memorial  Institute 
with  unabated  interest.  Increasing  infirmity  has  compelled  his  re- 
tirement from  the  active  duties  of  the  profession  to  which  he  has 
added  lustre  not  only  by  his  skill,  but  by  a  dignified  deportment, 
which  has  characterized  his  long  and  useful  life.  He  is  standing 
just  between  the  hither  and  the  thither  shore,  and  must  soon  fol- 
low his  compeers,  guided  by  that  star  which  lighteth  to  a  happier 
land. 

The  wreathing  of  the  ring  flower  with  the  amaranth  has  marked 
the  pages  of  our  history.  The  chime  of  wedding  bells  has  been 
heard  as  teachers  and  pupils  in  the  union  of  hearts,  came,  twain  by 
twain — 

"Like  kindred  drops  to  mingle  into  one." 
1 


416  HISTORY    OF    THE 


Many  homes  have  been  established  and  beautiful  would  be  the 
frontispiece  for  this  history  could  the  skillful  artist  follow  them  to 
"Sweet  Home,"  and  find  there  the  Angel  of  Peace,  the  umpire  at 
the  fireside,  saying  to  every  discordant  element,  "Peace  be  still." 

"There  is  a  reaper  whose  name  is  death, 

And  with  his  sickle  keen; 
He  reaps  the  bearded  grain  at  a  breath. 
And  flowers  that  grow  between." 

Another  sound  has  fallen  on  the  ear,  sad  and  low, — the  death 
"knell,"  the  funeral  march  to  the  City  of  the  Dead.  At  the  roll 
call  of  1888,  we  listen  in  vain  for  many  familiar  voices,  the  "bearded 
grain"  and  the  "flowers"  in  their  bloom  have  been  cut  down  by  the 
great  "Reaper"  from  among  the  co-wovkers  and  students  of  the 
Saltsburg  Academy,  or  Memorial  Institute,  with  whom  we  "took 
sweet  counsel"  in  the  by  gone. 

Where  are  they!  Echo  answers  where  the  silence  of  death 
reigns,  foreboding  aennihilation. 

"Sad  cure;  for  v\ho  would  lose  though  full  of  pain,  this  intellec- 
tual being?" 

But  hark  a  moment,  and  a  voice  is  heard  over  the  great  "Pro- 
foimd,"  renssuring  us  that  their  sleep  is  not  eternal, — 

"I  am  the  resurrection  and  the  life." 

The  surviving  alumni  have  not  found  the  "Fountain  of  Immortal 
Youth,"  that  dream  of  the  enthusiast.  They  too  must  soon  join 
that  class  of  valedictorians,  who  have  bid  farewell  to  classmares  and 
to  all  sublunary  things,  and  have  been  advanced  to  that  highest  of 
all  schools,  where  the  "Rabboni"  is  He  in  whom  is  centered  all 
knowledge,  where  the  curriculum  consists  of  but  one  Theme  and 
Angels  are  yet  freshmen  contemplating  that  wonderful  mystery, 
"God  mnnifest  in  the  flesh." 

"  When  in  this  vale  of  vears  we  backward  look, 
And  miss  such  numbers,  numbers  too  of  such, 
Firmer  in  health,  and  greener  in  their  age, 
And  stricter  on  their  guard,  and  fitter  far 
To  play  life's  subtle  game,  we  scarce  believe 
We  still  survive." 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTATSTNING.  417 


SLATE  LiCK  CLASSICAL  INSTITUTE. 


BY    PROF.   J.    SHIELDS    BROWN. 


A  goodly  number  of  persons  in  the  neighborhood  being  desir- 
ous  of  pursuing  courses  of  study  in  languages  and  other  higher 
branches,  an  effort  was  made  by  persons  interested  to  start  a  select 
school  in  the  spring  of  1865.  The  effort  proved  successful  and 
Mr.  David  S.  Tappan,  then  a  student  in  the  Western  Theological 
Seminary,  was  secured  to  take  charge  of  it  for  the  summer.  Rev. 
D.  H.  Sloan,  then  teaching  in  Dunlap's  Creek  Academy,  Fayette 
county,  Pa.,  urged  the  enterprise  upon  the  attention  of  those  inter- 
ested, drew  up  the  subscription  paper,  which  was  carried  around  by 
his  sister,  M.  Lizzie  Sloan,  and  Robert  McCaslin,  and  when  the 
names  of  over  thirty  were  secured,  went  to  the  seminary  and 
engaged  the  teacher.  Mr.  Tappan  was  a  very  efficient  and  popu- 
lar teacher,  and  under  him  the  school  made  a  very  promising 
beginning.  During  his  term  it  was  familiarly  known  as  the 
"  Tappan  Institute."  With  a  D.  D.  added  to  his  name,  Mr.  Tap- 
pan  is  now  pastor  of  the  Presbyterian  church,  Mt.  Pleasant,  Iowa. 
He  is  also  Stated  Clerk  of  the  Synod  of  Iowa.  He  resumed  his 
studies  at  the  seminary  in  the  fall,  and  the  school,  during  the 
winter  term,  was  in  chai^ge  of  Mr.  Charles  W.  Miller.  Mr.  Miller 
shortly  after  became  and  still  remains  a  minister  of  the  gospel  in 
connection  with  the  M.  E.  Church. 

The  success  of  the  school  thus  far  being  encouraging  to  those 
interested  in  it,  a  public  meeting  was  held  about  the  middle  of 
April,  1866,  to  take  action  looking  to  its  successful  continuance, 
and    a   plan   of  organization    was    reported    by    a   committee    and 


418  HISTORY    OF    THE 


adopted.  At  this  time  the  name  "  Slate  Lick  Classical  Institute  " 
by  which  the  school  has  since  been  known  was  adopted,  and  a 
board  of  trustees  was  elected.  The  new  teacher,  Mr.  Hugh  W. 
Parks,  was  present,  and  such  was  the  spirit  of  the  meeting  that 
the  friends  of  the  infant  enterprise  felt  greatly  encouraged.  Mr. 
Parks  remained  but  a  single  term,  returning  to  the  Western  Theo- 
logical Seminary  in  the  fall.  He  is  now  pastor  of  the  Presby- 
terian church  at  Hopedale,  Ohio. 

Mr.  D.  H.  Sloan,  having  resigned  the  principalship  of  Dunlap's 
Creek  Academy  and  located  at  Slate  Lick,  was  invited  to  take 
charge  of  the  institute.  He  did  so,  beginning  his  term  of  service 
in  November,  1866,  and  continuing  for  eleven  successive  terms,  or 
until  the  spring  of  1872.  During  these  six  years,  the  attendance 
of  students,  especially  at  summer  terms,  was  very  encouraging,  and 
a  considerable  number  of  young  men  were  prepared  for  college. 
Mr.  Sloan,  at  this  time  a  licentiate,  being  called  to  take  charge  of 
the  Presbyterian  church  at  Leechburg,  resigned.  Of  this  church 
he  is  still  pastor. 

Mr.  Robert  McCaslin,  now  pastor  of  the  Presbyterian  church, 
Arkansas  City,  Kansas,  was  in  charge  during  the  summer  of  1872. 
After  this  no  teacher  was  obtained  until  the  spring  of  1874,  when 
Mr.  J.  C.  Dinsmore  took  charge  and  remained  three  terms.  While 
engaged  as  a  druggist  at  Enon  Valley,  Pa.,  his  death  occurred, 
November  21,  1883. 

During  the  summer  of  1876,  Mr.  John  S.  Plumer,  now  pastor 
of  Hazlewood  Presbyterian  church,  Pittsburgh,  was  in  charge,  the 
term  being  finished  by  Mr.  Calvin  Rayburn,  now  attorney  at  law, 
Kittanning.  No  other  teacher  was  obtained  until  the  spring  of 
1880,  when  Mr.  Leslie  E.  Hawk,  now  pastor  of  the  U.  P.  church 
at  Pepacton,  N.  Y.,  was  in  charge  of  a  summer  term.  In  1881, 
Rev.  L.  McCampbell,  then  and  now  pastor  of  the  U.  P.  church  at 
Slate  Lick,  took  charge  of  the  school  and  continued  for  four  terms, 
two  years  in  all.  For  the  summer  terms  of  1883-4-5,  Mr.  G.  E. 
Carnahan,  now  a  minister  of  the  U.  P.  church,  was  in  charge.  He 
was  succeeded  in  1886  by  Mr.  J.  C.  Pickens,  and  in  1887  by  Mr. 
A.  W.  McClurkan  and  Mr.  J.  S.  Hill,  the  two  latter  together 
teaching  a  term  of  five  months. 

This  school  has  done  its  work  under  circumstances,  in  several 
respects,  disadvantageous.     One  of  the  chief  of  these  has  been  the 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  419 

-want  of  a  permanent  and  suitable  building.  The  exercises  of  the 
school  were  held  in  the  old  Presbyterian  church  from  1865  to 
to  1869  inclusive.  Also,  in  1870,  until  the  time  of  its  removal 
about  July,  and  then  to  the  end  of  the  term  in  the  unfinished 
audience  room  of  the  new  church.  During  the  winter  term  of  1870- 
71  it  was  held  in  the  old  residence  of  Mr.  James  Brown.  During 
the  summer  term  of  1871  and  for  several  years  after,  it  was  held 
in  the  house  built  by  Mr.  George  B.  Sloan  and  given  to  the  school 
for  its  use  without  compensation,  except  part  of  the  time  in  the 
way  of  a  small  rent  paid  by  students  occupying  rooms  in  the  build- 
ing. During  later  years  the  basement  of  the  Presbyterian  church 
has  been  occupied.  To  Mr.  Geo.  B.  Sloan  much  of  the  credit  of 
the  enterprise  during  its  earlier  years  is  due.  He  was  always  in 
sympathy  with  the  objects  of  the  school  and  always  ready  and 
willing  to  co-operate  in  all  practical  ways.  Rev.  T.  C.  Anderson, 
at  that  time  pastor  of  the  Presbyterian  church,  James  Rayburn, 
Esq.,  David  and  Robert  McCaslin,  A.  F.  Boyd,  and  the  family  of 
James  Brown  were  among  the  more  active  promoters  of  this  school 
enterprise  in  the  time  of  its  infancy.  There  has  been  no  board  of 
trustees  since  about  1876. 

The  whole  number  of  students  who  have  enjoyed  the  advan- 
tages of  Slate  Lick  Classical  Institute  approximates  1,000,  and  it 
has  representatives  in  almost  every  honorable  profession  and  voca- 
tion. At  least  ten  of  the  number  have  been  engaged  at  different 
times  as  teachers,  while  the  former,  mechanic  and  merchant  are 
to-day  doing  better  work  on  account  of  the  training  received 
therein. 

Well  may  the  projectors  of  the  S.  L.  C.  I.  look  back  over  its 
past  history  and  feel  that  a  good  work  has  been  accomplished. 


420  HISTORY    OF     THE 


6LAIRSVILLE  LADIES'   SEMINARY. 


TTTTTTTTTTTTTTT  T 


This  school  is  not  within  the  bounds  of  Kittanning  Presbyter}> 
but  is  close  upon  its  borders.  It  draws  a  considerable  portion  of 
its  support  from  this  Presbytery,  and  is  mentioned  here  as  helping 
to  complete  the  exhibit  of  the  varied  local  educational  facilities 
enjoyed  by  this  region.  It  was  founded  in  1851  by  Rev.  Geo. 
Hill,  D.  D.,  pastor  of  Blairsville  Presbyterian  church.  The  cata- 
logue for  1887  shows  a  Facult}'^  of  ten  persons,  and  students  in 
attendance  to  the  number  of  sixty-four.  The  building  is  most 
eligibly  situated  in  the  town  of  Blairsville,  is  44  by  160  feet,  three 
stories  high,  and  is  heated  throughout  by  steam.  Its  curriculum 
is  up  to  the  highest  standard  of  similar  institutions.  It  has  had  as 
principals  Rev.  Geo.  Hill,  D.  D.,  Rev.  S.  H.  Shepley,  Mrs.  P.  P. 
Shepley,  Rev.  J.  R.  Hughes,  Prof.  J.  Jewett  Parks,  Miss  Mary  A. 
Homans,  and  the  present  principal,  Rev.  T.  R.  Ewing,  D.  D.  Its 
arraduates  number  about  250- 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANXING.  421 


OTHER  SCHOOLS. 


Dayton  Soldier''s  Orphati  School.  This  school  was  founded 
hy  a  joint  stock  company  and  opened  in  1866.  It  was  thirtv-five 
acre?  of  land  on  which  are  erected  three  large  frame  buildings 
with  a  capacity  for  225  students.  Its  principals  have  been  Rev.  T. 
M.  Elder,  Rev.  J.  E.  Dodds,  Prof.  Hugh  McCandless,  and  since 
the  death  of  the  last,  his  daughter,  Mrs.  Ambrose.  Among  the 
chief  assistants  have  been  J.  P.  Barbor,  G.  W.  Innes,  W.  McKier- 
shan,  A.  T.  Ormond  and  M.  L.  Thounhurst.  It  has  generally 
had  200  pupils  or  more  in  attendance  at  a  time.  When  Governor 
Pattison  visited  the  school  in  1885,  he  reported  the  management  as 
characterized  b}  "conscious  intelligence."  The  chief  buildings 
were  burned  early  in  1888,  and  the  pupils  distributed  among  other 
schools. 

Dayton  U?iion  Academy.  This  school  wa>  established  in  185':;, 
its  chief  supporters  being  United  Presbyterian-  and  Methodists. 
This  school  and  the  Glade  Run  Academy  are  only  a  mile  apart. 
It  is  still  in  operation,  having  had  as  principal  teachers.  Rev.  John 
A.  Campbell,  Rev.  D.  K.  Duflf,  David  Love,  D.  W.  Lawson,  and 
others. 

Doaneville  Setninary.  In  the  year  1837  there  was  established 
at  Kittanning,  under  Episcopalian  auspices,  a  seminars  for  young 
ladies  under  the  name  above  given,  of  which  Rev.  B.  B.  Kdlikellv 
was  principal,  who  was  succeeded  in  1839  by  Mis.  Warren,  In 
1849,  the  first  principal  returned  and  the  name  of  the  school  was 
changed  to  "  Minnesota  Point  Seminary.*'  In  1855  it  reported 
160  pupils.  For  a  time  it  was  in  charge  of  Revs.  Hall  and  Cnrter. 
In  1863  the  first  principal  again  returned  and  changed  t!ie  name  of 
the  school  to  "  Glen  Mary  Hall."  It  continued  under  various 
principals  until  about  1868. 


422  HISTORY    OK    THE 


Elderton  Academy.  This  school  was  founded  in  1865,  chiefly 
under  United  Presbyterian  auspices.  During  most  of  the  time 
until  3876,  it  was  in  charge  of  Rev.  Byron  Porter,  pastor  of  the 
U.  P.  church  at  Elderton.  As  principal  he  was  very  successful, 
tlie  enrollment  of  students  one  year  reaching  eighty.  Since  Mr. 
Portei-'s  death  it  has  been  in  charge  of  his  daughter,  Mrs.  Smith, 
Mr.  Duncan  and  Mr.  J.  H.  Cooper.  Among  those  who  have 
been  its  students  are  ten  or  more  ministers,  seven  physicians,  five 
dentists,  four  lawyers,  one  college  professor  and  one  county  super- 
intendent of  public  schools. 

Freeport  Academy.  Some  time  previous  to  1850,  Rev,  Wm. 
Galbraith,  a  minister  of  the  U.  P.  Church,  started  in  Freeport  a 
classical  school  which  he  conducted  with  encouraging  success  for  a 
number  of  years.  Other  teachers  were  M.  H.  Ryerson  and 
Thomas  Magill.  For  many  years  past  this  school  has  not  been  in 
operation.  But  for  three  or  four  years  past  a  school  of  similar 
character  has  been  conducted  by  Rev.  H.  K.  Shanor,  pastor  of 
the  Genera!  Council  Lutheran  church  there. 

Greenville  Academy.  (By  Rev.  B.  S.  Sloan.)  The  school  at 
Greenville  was  a  regularly  organized  Academy.  It  was  founded 
as  a  union  enterprise  in  1877,  with  Thomas  McMullen,  M.  D.. 
Wm.  Fair,  Giles  Stephens  and  Wm.  Evans  as  trustees. 

The  first  principal  teacher  was  Wm.  T.  Garroway,  now  a  Pres- 
byterian minister  who  remained  two  years.  He  was  succeeded  for 
one  term  of  five  months  by  John  P.  Hearst,  now  a  Presbyterian 
minister  and  a  missionary  to  Siam.  The  third  teacher  was  Rev. 
A.  W.  McCullough,  a  Lutheran  minister  who  remained  in  charge 
two  and  a  half  years.  Under  tiiese  teachers  the  school  prospered, 
but  more  recently  it  has  declined,  and  is  open  now  in  the  summer 
only  as  a  select  school.  The  sessions  of  the  school  have  been  held 
in  the  upper  room  of  a  large  public  school  building  erected  in 
1876. 

Indiana  County  iVormal  School.  (By  Rev.  A.  McElwain, 
D.  D.)  This  school  held  its  first  session  during  the  month  of 
October,  1855,  under  the  supervision  of  the  county  superintendent, 
Rev.  S.  P.  Bollman,  assisted  by  Prof.  J.  F.  Stoddard,  Dr.  Calvin 
Cutter  and  Profs.  C.  Walker  and  R.  T.  Cornwell. 

During  the  session  upwards  of  one  hundred  teachers  were  in 
attendance,  devoting  themselves  closely  to  a   careful  preparation  of 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTAXNING  42B 

their  daily  recitations,  and  manifested  deep  interest  in  the  lectures 
on  the  Science  and  Art  of  Teachina^  dehvered  by  Prof.  Stoddard, 
and  also  in  the  scientific  lectures  delivered  hy  other  members  of  the 
Faculty. 

Encouraged  by  this  success,  the  teachers  of  the  county  unani- 
mously requested  the  superintendent  to  call  another  session  of  the 
normal  school.  This  was  done,  and  the  teachers  convened  at 
Indiana,  October  1,  1856,  with  the  followin.':  result:  Faculty, 
Rev.  S.  P.  Bollman,  county  superintendent,  principal,  assisted  by 
Prof.  S.  A.  Terrell,  Honesdale,  VVavne  county.  Pa;  Prof.  J.  F. 
Stoddard,  New  York;  Prof.  E.  D.  B,  Porter,  Cherry  Tree,  Indiana 
county.  Pa,;  Silas  M.  Clark,  A.  M.,  Prof.  Extraordinary;  assist- 
ant teachers,  R.  P.  Reed,  and  A.  C.  Patterson,  Indiana,  Pa.;  A. 
Getty,  Conemavigh,  Pa.,  and  J.  C.  Lininger,  West  Lebanon,  Pa. 
The  female  department  numbered  51,  and  the  male  department,  49 
pupils,  making  a  total   of  112. 

Indiana  State  Normal  School.  This  school  is  located  at 
Indiana.  It  was  opened  in  1875,  and  is  regarded  as  one  of  the 
most  successful  institutions  of  its  kind  in  the  State.  The  building 
in  location,  size,  style,  and  appointments  is  regarded  as  the  finest  in 
the  Commonwealth  of  Pennsylvania.  The  catalogue  for  1887 
shows  a  Faculty  of  sixteen  teachers,  L.  H  Durling  being  princi- 
pal, and  an  attendance  in  all  departments,  scientific,  elementary, 
under-graduate,  and  model,  of  601  students,  229  males  and  372 
females. 

Jacksonville  Academy.  (By  H.  B.  Mclntyre.)  Rev.  M.  H. 
Wilson,  a  minister  of  the  U.  P.  Church,  laid  the  foundation  for 
Jacksonville  Academy  by  teaching  two  young  men  in  his  own  resi- 
dence in  the  village.  These  young  men  were  Abraham  Lowman 
and  a  Mr.  Kerr.  Acting  upon  the  suggestion  thus  made,  some  ot 
the  fathers  set  to  work  to  raise  a  stock  company  to  erect  a  building 
and  start  an  academy.  This  vvas  accomplished  in  the  fall  of  1849, 
when  a  board  of  trustees  was  chosen  to  watch  over  and  further  the 
interests  of  the  young  institution.  These  trustees  were  Samuel  G. 
Miller,  John  McCurdy,  Wm.  Robinson,  Geo.  S.  Lowman,  Wm. 
McFarland,  Samuel  McCartney,  of  whom  the  last  named  is  the 
only  one  now  living. 

The  principals  of  this  Academy  in  succession  were  as  follows: 
Rev.  M.  H.    Wilson,  five  year>;  Rev,  J.  M.  Jamison,  one   year; 


424  HISIOKY    OF    THE 


Rev.  M.  H.  Wilson,  four  years;  Rev.  Franklin  Orr,  two  years; 
W,  A.  Leggeit,  A.  B,,  one  year;  H.  B.  Mclntyre,  A.  B.,  one 
year;  Prof.  Robb,  one  year;  Rev.  Samuel  Hood,  one  year.  The 
term  of  t!ie  last  named  closed  with  the  year  1867.  By  this  time 
institutions  of  like  grade  had  sprung  up  all  over  the  land,  and 
almost  every  village  had  its  select  school,  and  as  a  consequence  the 
academy  ceased  to  he  self-sustaining.  Some  time  afterwards  the 
building  was  sold  by  the  trustees  to  the  school  directors  of  the 
V)orough  for  a  public  school   house. 

This  institution  was  a  flourishiii;<  one  during  the  greater  part  of 
the  time  of  its  existence,  and  sent  out  to  battle  for  the  right  some 
very  v.iluable  men.  Aidefi  bv  the  labors  of  tl»e  able  teachers  who 
were  found  in  it  to  fill  with  success  and  to  grace  their  stations  in 
life,  they  went  out,  with  characters  moulded  and  minds  disciplined, 
into  the  various  professions  and  avocations.  A  very  large  pro- 
portion of  them  found  their  w^av  into  the  gospel  ministry,  as  many, 
perhaps,  as  forty,  while  others  are  doing  good  service  in  other  pro- 
fessions and  callings.  Its  bell  no  longer  summons  an  eager  band 
to  tiieir  daily  portion  of  classic  lore;  its  name  belongs  to  the  list  of 
"the  departed;"  but  it  vet  lives  influentially  in  the  persons  of  many 
who  once  were  stuvlents  within  its  humble  walls. 

Kittanning  Academy.  This  school  was  authorized  by  act  of 
Assembly,  approved  April  2,  1821.  The  trustees  first  named  were 
Thomas  Hamilton,  James  Monteith,  Robert  Robinson,  Samuel 
Matthews,  David  Reynolds  and  Samuel  S.  Harrison.  Their  first 
meeting  was  held  September  4,  1821.  In  the  fiill  of  1824,  a  build- 
ing WAS  contracted  for  to  be  erected  at  a  cost  of  $1,130.  It  was 
locate  1  on  ti'e  south  west  corner  of  the  Public  Square,  in  the 
borough  of  Kittanning.  In  February,  1827,  Charles  G.  Snowden 
was  engaged  to  open  the  school,  his  compensation  to  be  $15  per 
quarter  out  of  the  public  money,  besides  private  subscriptions.  Other 
teachers,  the  exact  dates  of  whose  terms  of  service  cannot  be  given, 
were  Mr.  Alex.  Shirran,  Rev.  J.  N.  Stark,  Rev.  Joseph  Painter, 
D.  D.,  Rev.  E.  D.  Barrett.  About  1863,  or  1864,  the  school 
ceased  its  existeVice.  The  lots  of  ground  occupied  by  the  school, 
after  several  years  of  litigation  reverted  to  the  county,  the  decision 
of  the  lower  court  to  this  effect  being  affirmed  b}-  the  Supreme 
Court  in  October,  1861. 


PRESBYTERY    OF    KITTANNING.  425 

Lambeth  College.  In  1868  another  institution  was  established 
at  Kittanning,  under  Episcopalian  auspices.  An  ample  charter  was 
obtained  and  the  school  was  named  Lambeth  College.  For  about 
ten  years  under  competent  instructors  it  held  on  its  way.  Lacking 
buildings  and  a  good  financial  basis  it  was  not  sufficiently  self  sup- 
porting and  it  passed  away. 

Rural  Valley  School.  In  the  year  1845,  Rev.  James  D.  Mason 
opened  a  school  in  the  Presbyterian  church,  giving  instruction  in 
Latin  and  Greek  as  well  as  other  branches.  He  was  succeeded  in 
the  work  by  Rev.  Cochran  Forbes,  and  he,  in  turn,  by  Mr.  John 
McElroy  in  a  building  erected  by  him  on  his  own  premises.  Other 
teachers  during  a  period  of  twenty-five  years  past,  have  been  H.  C. 
Fouke,  Mr.  Talmage,  T.  R.  Ewing,  Louis  Kimmel,  Joseph  Beei", 
L.  M.  Belden,  and  others.  This  school  has  not  been  open  contin- 
uously. 

Worthington  Acade7ny.  In  1852  there  was  established  at 
VVorthington,  a  school  known  at  first  as  the  "Buffalo  Institute." 
This  school  was  under  Lutheran  ausoices,  and  earlier  teachers  were 
of  that  denomination,  although  many  of  the  later  ones  have  been 
Presbyterians.  To  about  1857  the  principals  had  been  Mr.  C.  J. 
Ebrehart,  Mr.  W.  F.  Ulery  and  Rev.  A.  C.  Ehrenfeld.  About 
1868  the  school  was  revived  and  has  since  been  in  operation  most 
of  the  time,  though  usually  only  with  summer  terms.  The  teach- 
ers have  been  L.  W.  Knipe,  E.  S.  Heany,  E.  H.  Dickinson,  D. 
Crist,  D.  H.  Culp,  J.  C.  R.  Ewing,  M.  Cunningham,  J.  T,  Young, 
A.  C.  Good,  J.  P.  Wiley,  Newton  Donaldson,  H.  Wallace,  J.  J. 
Ralston,  J.  P.  Davis,  W.  A.  Nicholson.  Most  of  these  teachers 
have  become  ministers  of  the  gospel. 


54 


(History  of  the   Presbytery  of  Kittanning.) 

Page  26,  eighteenth  hue  from  bottom,  date  of  Rev.  W.  F. 
Gibson's  ordination,  1877. 

Page  28,  third  Hne  from  bottom,  tor  "  1885  "  read  1875. 

Page  31,  third  hne  from  top,  for  "  Wm.  W.  Woodend  "  read 
Frankhn  Orr. 

Page  32,  near  bottom,  reverse  dates  1887  and  1886. 

Page  35,  ninth  hne  from  top,  for  "  April  11  "  read  April  10. 

Page  39,  in  caption  for  "of"  read  to. 

Page  75,  eleventh  line  from  bottom,  for  "Freeport"  read 
Leechburg. 

Page  78,  eleventh  line  from  bottom,  for  "  1884  "  read  1874. 

Page  86,  sixth  line  from  bottom,  for  "  accectable  "  read  accept- 
able. 

Page  106,  twelfth  line  from  bottom,  for  "  Margaret "  read 
Mary. 

Page  115,  twenty-first  line  from  top,  omit  "  ordained  and." 

Page  116,  first  line  from  top,  tor  « 1879  "  read  1877. 

Page  129,  fourteenth  line  from  top,  for  "1885  "  read  1883. 

Page  132,  tenth  line  from  bottom,  for  "  1848  "  read  1858. 

Page  132,  fourth  line  from  bottom,  for  "  houses  "  read  house. 

Page  163,  tenth  line  trom  bottom,  for  "  1886  "  read  1876. 

Page  172,  fourteenth  line  from  top,  for  "  1884  "  read  1844. 

Page  178,  first  line  from  top,  for  "  Mt."  read  West. 

Page  180,  sixteenth  line  from  top,  for  "  was  "  read  were. 

Page  184,  fourth  line  from  top,  for  "  1885  "  read  1855. 

Page  189,  "  The  history  of  Freeport  church  was  largely  copied 
trom  that  prepared  by  my  predecessor.  Rev.  J.  J.  Francis,  D.  D." 
— T.  M.  ThomjDson. 

Page  197,  fifteenth  line  from  top,  for  "  1887"  read  1877. 

Page  202,  twelfth  line  from  bottom,  for  "  1887  "  read  1857. 


KRRAl A. 


Page  206,  eighteenth  line  trom  top,  for  «  1855  "  read  1865. 

Page  209,  third  hne  from  top,  for  "  1867  "  read  1857. 

Page  214,  nineteenth  line  from  bottom,  for  "  D.  D."  lead  D.  L. 

Page  215,  eighth  line  from  bottom,  for  "  Jas.  P."   read  Jas.  R. 

Page  235,  eleventh  line  from  bottom,  for  "  1888"  read  1858. 

Page  242,  nineteenth  line  from  bottom,  for  "  1858  "  read  1868. 

Page  256,  seventeenth  line  from  bottom,  for  "  529  "  read  259. 

Page  266,  seventh  line  from  top,  after  "80"  insert  W.  T.  Gar- 
roway,  1883. 

Page  269,  fourth  line  from  top,  for  "  September  13,  1874,"  read 
April  10,  1870. 

Page  269,  fifth  line  from   top,  for  "  Stroup"  lead  Shoup. 

Page  269,  sixth  line  from  top,  for  "  April  10,  1820,"  read  Sep- 
tember 13,  1874. 

Page  274,  thirteenth  line  from  top,  for  "1887"  read  1877. 

Page  288,  twelfth  line  from  bottom,  for  «  1828  "  read  1858. 

P^ge  319,  third  line  from  top,  after  "  church  "  insert,  of  Cedar 
Rapids,  Iowa,  three  and  a  half  years;  of  the  First  Presbyterian 
church. 

Page  348,  tenth  line  from  bottom,  for  "  4  "  read  14. 

Page  394,  eighteenth  line  from  top,  for  "  1865  "  read  1868. 

Page  419,  sixth  line  from  bottom,  after  "  have  "  insert,  entered 
the  ministry,  six  the  profession  of  law,  four  that  of  medicine,  and 
a  large  number  have. 

Page  419,  fifth  line  from  bottom,  for  "  former  "  read  farmer. 


iisri>aE;x. 


Action  on  overtures 4i-51 

Agnew,  Rev.  John  R 280,  283 

Alexander,  Miss  Sarali  M 412 

Alexander,  Prof.  W.  J 395,  414 

Allen,  Dr.  R.  H.  and  Mrs.  Mary 76 

Allison,  Dr.  James 315 

Ambrose,  Rev.  John  C 263,  300,  302 

Anderson,  Miss  Jennie 398,  400 

Anderson,  Robert  E 414 

Anderson,  Rev.  Thomas  B....     294,  356,  404 

Anderson,  Rev.  Thomas  C 332,  419 

Andrews,  Rev.  John 2.39 

Anniversarj',  Dr.  Donaldson's  35th 63 

Anniversary,  Or.  Donaldson's  50th 65 

Applebv  Manor  church 106 

Apollo  church 95 

Atwood  church 110 

Aug^ht-y,  Rev.  John  H 145,  332,  342 

Axtell,  Rev.  J.  S 115,  120,  224,  266 

Baker,  Rev.  Perrin,  108,  124,  157,  159,  268 
Barclay,  Rev.  David,  203,  220,  2:39,  291,  354 
Barnctt,  Rev.  John  M....  182,  368,  379,  382 
Barrett,  Rev.  E.  D.,    160,  204,  2:39,  240,  267, 

291,  424. 

Barlley,  Rev.  Mr 96 

Bausman,  Rev.  Jos.  H 116,  225 

Bell,  Rev.  A.  T 20,  29,  80,  84,  132,  169, 

299. 

Bell,  Mrs.  M.  H 68 

Benham,  Rev.  D.  M 109,  247 

Bethel  church 112 

Bethesda  church 118 

Black,  Rev.  John  K 287 

Black,  Thomas 251 

Hlacklick  church 120 

Blairsville  Ladies  Seminary 42C 

BogSS,J.  M 377 

Boilini;  Spring:  church 122,  179 

Bollman,  Rev.  S.  P.,  115,  130,  131,  168,  299, 

355,  356,  422,  423. 

Bollman,  Rev.  \V.  J 382,  403 

Boyd,  Rev.  J.  F .348,  350 

Boyd,  Rev.  James  S 391 

15oyd,  Rev.  John 80,  324,  327,  348 

Iloyle,  R<-v.  B.  F 260,  333,  342 

Bracken,  Rev.  Newton 128 

Brady's  Bend  church 127 

Bristol,  Rev.  C.  B 98,  12:3 

Brown,  A.  H 402,  411 


PAGE, 

Brown,  Rev.  David .377,  393 

Brown,  Rev.  J 115 

Brown,  Prof.  John  A 407,  409 

itrown,  Prof.  J.  S 417 

Brown,  Miss  Lida 404 

Brown,  Dr.  Matthew .379 

Brownson,  John :382 

Cairns,  Rev.  George 145,  .348,  350,  361 

Caldwell,  E.  B :382 

Caldwell,  Rev.  lames 169,  340 

Caldwell,  Rev.  Samuel 190,  249,  251 

Calhoun,  Rev.  John  A 394 

Calhoun,  Rev.  Jos.  P 1:34,  158 

Camp,  E.  B 136 

Camp,  H.  F 136 

Campbell,  Rev.  James 156,  240 

Camp  Wrig^ht,  stipplies  sent 59 

Carnahan,  Rev.  Geo.  E 418 

Carothers,  R.  H .382 

Carr,  Rev.  \V.  B 121 

Caruthers,  Rev.  John,  90,  149,  168,  196,  262, 

272,  273,  301,  302. 
Caruthers,  Rev.  James  E.,  91,  124,  141,  252, 

:309,  382,  403. 

Centenary  Discourse 79 

Centre  church 130 

Chalfant,  Rev.  G.  W 315,  410 

Cherr}'  Run  church 133 

Cherry  Tree  church 136 

Christian  Commission,  laborers  sent....      60 

Christy,  Miss  Amanda 407 

Christy,  Rev.  D.  D 131,  ;356 

Christ3',  Miss  Mary  B 407 

Clark,  Matthew :381 

Clarksburg' church 140,  179 

Cl.ark,  Hon.  S.  M 405,  423 

Clerks  of  Presbytery 28,  84 

Clinton  church 144 

Coan,  Rev.  Er 76 

Coe,  Miss  Sarah  IT :391 

Coe,  Rev.  Mr 96 

Cole,  Rev.  E 137 

Colledge,  Rev.  Wm 89,  107,  115,  157 

Colpnrtage,  Committee  on 64 

Columbia  University :375 

CoMimissioners  to  General  Assembly...      31 

Commissioners  to  Synod :^2 

Communion  Wine 55 

Concord  church 149 


II 


INDEX. 


PAGE. 

Confcri.'nccs 44 

Conr.-ul,  Rev.  L.  L 128,  280,  28-1 

Contributions  to  Ministry 33-39 

Cook,  Kcv.  Alexander 278,  279,  282 

Corbctt,  Dr.  Hunter 76 

Cornyn,  Rev.  John  K 191,  £80 

Coulter,  Rev.  James 280,  281,  284 

Covode  Academy 376 

Covodc,  Hon.  John .376 

Craighead,  D.  E 377 

Crais-head,  Prof.  S.  J 382 

Crane,  Rev.  N.  M 268 

Crawford,  A.  C,  Esq 2:38 

Crawford,  A.  J.  T 272 

Crawford,  F.  S .'. 377 

Cross,  Rev.  John 114,  172 

Crooked  Creek  church 156 

Currie's  Run  church 160 

Dannn,  Prof. 410 

Davis,  Rev.  James 120 

Davis,  Rev.  S.  M 192,  377 

Davis,  Rev.   I  homas 208,  239,  240 

Dayton  -.  O.  School 421 

Di'yton  Union  Academy 421 

Delinquent  churches 63 

Des  Islets,  Rev.  C.  M 394 

Diament,  Rev.  J.  N 115,  138 

Dick,  Rev.  J.N .375 

Dickey,  Itev.  D.  L 266 

Dickey,  Rev.  J.  B 142 

District  Conventions 44 

Dinsmore,  Prof.  J.  C 418 

Doaneville  Seminary 421 

Donaldson,  Dr.  Alexander,  9,  22,  23,  33,  63- 

65,   79,   98,   100,    102,   161,  178,   249, 

315,  366,  378,  386. 

Donaldson,  Rev.  A.  H 115 

Donaldson,  A.  M 382 

Donaldson.J.  B 382 

Donaldson,  J.  H 382 

Donaldson,  W.  B 382 

Dow,  Prof.  F.  H 414 

Duncan,  Rev.  C.  C.  B 294,  340,  357 

Duncan,  J.  M 382 

Dunlap,  Rev.  Mr 96,  97 

Earhart,  Profs.  E.  L.  and  E.  B 414 

Early  churches 20,  80 

East  Union  church 168 

Ebenezer  church 170 

Ebenezer  church  on  Pukaty 293 

Ecclesiastical  divisions 83 

Edgar,  Rev.  \Vm 137 

Elder,  D.  W 382 

Elder,  Rev.  J.  S 65 

Elder,  Miss  Magsie  M 382 

Elder,  Prof.  T.  B 378,  387 


I'.\Gt. 

Elder,  Mrs.  T.  n 71 

Elder's  conventions 43 

Elder's  Ridfre  Academy 33,  182,  376 

Elder's  Ridj^e  church 6:i,  65,  176 

Elderton  Academy 422 

Elderton  church 184 

EUinwood,  Dr.  F.  F 76 

Elliott,  A.J 407 

Elliott,  Rev.  A.  S 274,  302 

Elliott,  Rev.  S.  E 103,  125 

Ehvood,  J.  II 414 

Evans,  R.  J 141 

Ewing,  Rev.  Jas.  A 405 

Ewinjr,  Dr.   r.  D.,     54,  72,  73.  84,  241.  2e9, 

268,  375. 
Ewinjf,  Dr.  T    R.,    124,   142,   225,  237,  266, 

345,  420,  425. 

Finlay,  J.  B 60 

Findley,  J.  G.  D 403 

Fleming,  Rev.  S.  B 394 

Foley,  Miss  Martha  H 375,  403 

Forbes,  Rev.  C 150,  205,  307,  3:39,  425 

Foreign  Missionary  Society,  Woman's      71 

Foster,  Rev.  A.  S 266,  411 

Foster,  Prof.  J.  M 411,  415 

Francis,  Dr.  J.  J.,      63,  65,  72,  84,  146,  192, 
260,  366. 

Frantz,  L.  H 387 

Freeport  Academy 422 

Freeport  church 189 

Fullerton,  Rev.  J.  Q.  A 104,  125 

Fulton,  Rev.  R.  H 116,  226 

Galbreath,  Rev.  Jas.,   196,  201,  203,  228,  239 

Gallagher,  C.  F 382 

Garroway,  W.  T 132,  220,  403,  422 

Geary,  Dr.  E.  R 161 

Gibson,  Rev.  Jos.  '1" 377 

Gibson,  Rev.  Wm.  F.,  197,  274,  275,  302,  377 

Gilgal  church 196 

Gilson,  Rev.  S.  S 382 

Gilbert,  G.  \V .382 

Gillespie,  Dr.  J 76 

Gillette,  Rev.  C.  B 281,  285 

Glade  Run  Academy 33 

Glade  Run  church 200 

Glass,  Rev.  S.  J 246 

Goheen,  G.  \V 401 

Good,  A.  C 193,  396,  398,  425 

Gordon,  Rev.  Seth  R 287 

Gourley,  Rev.  John 84,  116,  121,  225 

Graves,  Rev.  L.  M.,    89,   98,    106,   122,   157, 
251,  259. 

Gregg,  Rev.  A.  J 360,  371 

Greenville  Academy 422 

Grier,  Rev.   l.averty 267 


INDEX. 


Gwin,  Andrew 


PAGE. 

..     323 


Hall,  Dr.  David,     9,  128,  194,  232,  326, 

351. 

Hamilton,  Ruv.  J.  M 

Happer,  Mrs.  Dr 

Harbison,  Rev.  David 

Harmony  church 

Harper,  Rev.  Joseph 96, 

Hawk,  Rev.  Leslie  E 

Hays,  Dr.  G   P.,    71,  102,  172,  241,  315, 

Hazlett,  Rev.  D.  M 

Helm,  Rev.  J.  S 129,  296,  395, 

Henderson,  Rev.  J.  W 80,  86,  112, 

170,  218,  220,  228,  238,  314. 

Hcnnish,  Rev.  H.  K 

Henry,  Rev.  Ebenezer 280, 

Herries,  Rev.  A.  J 

Hill,  Dr.  George 23,  112,  228, 

Hill,  J.  S 

History,  committee  on 

History,  material  for 

Holliday,  Rev.  S.  H 

Home  Mission  Society,  Woman's 

Homer  church 120, 

Homans,  Miss  Mary  H 

Hood,  R.  H 

Houarh,  Rev.  A.  A 

Howe,  M.  T 

Howey,  Prof.  R.  II 

Hug^hes,  Miss  Hattie 

Hughes,  Rev.  James  R 120, 

Hughes,  Rev.  Samuel  A.,  129,  145,  260, 

271,  281,  285,  349. 

Hughes,  Rev.  Watson 87,  97, 

Hunt,  Rev.  Thomas 


:i48, 

294 
76 
142 
218 
316 
418 
413 
138 
398 
114, 

163 
284 
396 
420 
418 
9 
9 
128 
68 
222 
420 
377 
346 
377 
414 
412 
420 
268, 

316 
239 


Indiana  church 227 

Indiana  Classical  School 405 

Indiana  County  Normal  School 422 

Indiana  State  Normal  School 423 

Intemperance 52,  57,  82 

Irwin,  Rev.  A.  F 274,  302,  377 

Irwin,  Dr.  D.  J 143,  173,  392,  398 

Jack,  R.  B 390 

Jack,  S.  M 382 

Jacksonville  Academy 33,  423 

Jacksonville  church 235 

Jacobus,  Dr.  M.  W 228 

Jamison,  Prof  J.  Watson 375 

Jamison,  S.  S 406 

Jones,  Rev.  J.  M.,     150,  290,   295,  :J40,  348, 
351,  389,  393. 

Johnston,  Miss  Emma  A 375 

Johnston,  Rev.  Joseph 189,  279 

Johnston,  Rev.  Robert 87,  114,  160,  278 

Johnston,  Dr.  Wm.  F 71,  76,  102 


PAGE. 

Jolly,  Rev.  A.  H 203,  300 

Kain,  Rev.  W.  M 333,  342 

Kean,  Rev.  W.  F  88,  191,  330,  336 

Kelly,  Rev.  J.  M 151,  296 

Kelly,  Rev.  N.  B , Ill,  308 

Kelly,  Prof.  W.  A 398 

Kennedy,  Rev.  J.  P 119,  138,  287,  288 

Kennedy,  S 382 

Kerr,  Rev.  J.  Horner 290,  308 

Kerr,  Rev.  John 157 

Kier,  Miss  L.  M 391 

Kirkpatrick,  Dr.  David 178 

Kirkpatrick,  Rev.  J.  H.  90,  98,  119,  168,  220, 
299,  339,  344,  355. 

King,  Rev.  D.  H 377 

Kittannine  Academy 424 

Kittanning  church,  1st 238 

Kittanning  church,  2d 245 

Kline,  W.  J.  K 402 

Knight,  H.  B 383 

Kountz,  Rev.  Lewis 144 

Laird,  Rev.  Francis 96,  293 

Lambeth  College 425 

Leason,  Rev.  T.  S 134,  95S,  289 

Lectures,  Glade  Run 397 

Lee,  Rev.  Robert,  96,  156,  239,  328,  347,  349 

Leechburg  church 249 

Leechburg  Institute 402 

Leggett,  W.  A 377 

Lester,  Miss  Frances 412 

Lewis,  Rev.  David 87,  173,  240 

Lewis,  S.  T 377 

Leyda,  Rev.  J.  E 296,  362,  370 

List  of  Licentiates 35 

Liquor  Licence 56 

Lloyd,  Miss  Rebekah  F 410 

Loring,  Miss  S.  E 71,  102 

Lowry,  Rev.  H.  W 281,  285 

Lowry,  Miss  Mary  P 409 

Lyons,  Prof.  W 407 

Macgonigle,  Rev.  J.  N 281,  285 

Magill,  Rev.  H.,  101,  125,  129,  150,  151,  259, 
271,  348,  352. 

Mahoning  church 259 

Marion  church 261 

Marks,  Rev.  Dr 241 

Marshall,  Rev.  A.  B 395 

Marshall,  Rev.  A.  b 390,  407,  409 

Marshall,  Kev.  James  H 391,  398 

Marshall,  W.  B 64 

Marquis,  Rev.  Mr 112,  170 

Marriage  and  divorce 64 

Mavers,  Rev.  H.  L 243 

Mason,  Rev.  Jas.  D 205,  307,  425 

McAboy,  Rev.  L.  R 128 


INDEX. 


I'AGE. 

McCuinpbfU,  Itcv.  L 418 

McCaslin,  Utv.  Kobcrl 403,  417,  418 

McCiellana,  Dr.  II.  T 395 

Mc._lunu,  Uev.  S.  M 287,  293 

McClun^,  b.  A 403 

McClurkan,  A.  W 418 

McComb,  Rev.  D.  S 2(57 

McComh,  Rev.  J.  M 398 

McCracken,  Rev.  J.  C :i3.3,  .342,  .395 

McCuUouKh,  Kev.  A.  \V .382,  403,  422 

McCurdy,  Uev.  T.  A .315,  403 

McEIhenny,  Rev.  Georife .369,  370 

.McElhose,  Mrs.  X.  J .391 

McElroy.J.  M 368,  382 

McElwain,  Dr.  A.,  02,  228,  229,  273,  289,  405 

McF.nrlanc),  Rev.  S.  G 71 

McFarren,  Uev.  S 98 

MeGarrauorh,  Uev.  Robt 203 

v'cGaughey,  Rev.  J.  M.,    274,  302,  377,  .394 

McGee,   Miss  Sar.ah  1 414 

Mclntvre,  II.  B 423 

Mclntyre,  J.  R 377 

Mcjunkin,  G.  C 414 

Mcjunkin,  Miss  Xannic 410 

McKay,  Rev.  D 267 

McKee,  Rev.  DivicI 402,403 

McKee,  Jaines  F 402 

McKinley,  E.  G 356 

McKinney,  Rev.  David 2128 

McKnig-ht,  J.  A ■. 382 

McKee,  Rev.  D.  D 191 

McLane,  Rev.  W.  W 108,  124 

McMichael,  Rev.  \Vm 268 

.McMillan,  Rev.  Roht 91,  99,  289 

McMulIen,  Jas.,  M,  D 265 

McPherrin,  Rev.  J. 220 

Mcchanicsbur?  church 265 

Mechlin,  Dr.  G.  W.,    66,  84,  150,  206,  3.39, 

340,  389,  394,  401. 

Mechlin,  J.  C 263,  396,  398 

Mechlin,  Rev.  L 65,  163,  186 

Meetinfjs  of  P'esbytery 40 

Mercer,  Prof.  S.  B 412,  414 

Miiklle  Creek  church 267 

Midv/ay  church 270 

Miller,  Rev.  Charles  W 417 

MilUr,  Dr.  Samuel  W 9,  64,  .318 

Mills,  Rev.  D 137,  168,  288 

Minister:?  sent  out 33 

Minion,  H.  C 193 

Miscellany 62 

Missionaries 37,  398,  400,  410,  411,  422 

Missionary  Work 68,  71,  86,  102 

Moderators  of  Pres 27 

Moffltt,  Revs.  W.  J.  and  T.  I .369 

Mohney,  M.  J 377 

Moore,  Rev.  Carl.,    115,128,197,273,    296, 

310,  2.i6. 


PAGE. 

Moore,  Rev.  John 138 

Moore,    Miss  Kate  J 411 

Moore,  Miss  Sarah  E 410 

Moore,  \V.  J 377 

Moore,  Rev.  W.  P 268,  405 

Moorhead,  Rev.  J.  D 294 

Morgan,  Rev.  VVm.  K 91,  185,  807,  343 

Morton,  Rev.  George ;....     172 

Mowry,  Dr.  P.  H 241 

Mount  Pleasant  church 272 

Narrative,  form  adopted 64 

Neal,  Mrs.  S.  J 398,  400 

Negley,  Rev.  T.  S 129 

Nott,  John 272 

Oiler,  W.   E 377 

O'Xeill,  E 168 

Ordinations 37 

Organization  of  churches 19,  29 

Organization  of  Presbjrtery 21,  22 

Orr,  Rev.  F.,    60,  62,  65,  115,  132,  162,  220^ 
236,  266,  302,  315,  424. 

Orr,  Rev.  John 100,  290 

Orr,  Rev.  R.  W 114 

Overtures,  action  on 47 

Painter,  Dr.  Joseph,     89,  149,  157,  159,  240, 
24-i,  304,  306,  424. 

Parker  City  church 277 

Parks,  H.  W 418 

Parks,  Prof.  J.  J 420 

Parnassus  church 287 

Parry,  Rev.  Thomas 119,  138 

Permanent  clerks  of  Presbytery 28 

Pickens,  J.  C 418 

Pine  Grove  church 288 

Pine  Run  church 289 

Planting  of  churches 20,  80 

Plum  Creek  ch.,  Armstrong  Co., 291 

Plum  Creek  ch.,  Westmoreland  Co 293 

Plumer,  J.  S 418 

Plumville  church 295 

Porter,  Rev.  Samuel 228,  239 

Prefatory  Notes 9 

Presbytcrial  boundaries 17 

Presbytery,  natural  features 13 

Presbytery,  organization  of 20 

Quay,  Rev.  A.  B 229 

Rayburn,  Calvin,  Esq., 418 

Rayne  church 298 

Record  in  War  for  Union 58 

Records  of  sessions,  instructions 65 

Redick,  Uev.  John 88,  189,  328,  .347 

Reed,  Rev.  John,  87,  160,  196,  228,  239,  240 

Rice,  Rev.  John 168,  220,  266 

Richer,  Prof.  Jas.  A 377,  392 


INDEX. 


PAGE. 

Uisiirlc,  Rev.  Geo.  W 40S 

Rigrt»^s,  Rev.  Cyrus 278 

Roberts,  Dr.  W.  C TO 

Robertson,  Miss TO 

Robinson,  Rev.  D.  G 120,  22:5 

Roiiinson,  Miss  Maria  J 410 

Robinson,  Rev.  Wni.  H 2.37,  396 

Robinson,  Rev.  Wm.  M 315 

Rockbridge  church 301 

Roll  of  churches 29 

Roll  of  ministers 24 

Rui-al  Valley  church 304 

Rural  Valley  School 425 

Saltsburg- Academy 33,  406 

Saltsburu;-  church 313 

Sample,  Rev.  J.  L 168,  262,  266,  299 

Saxman,  S.  A 37" 

Schneider,  Rev.  F.  J.  C 382,  398 

Scholarship  in  Wash.  CoUeg-e 62 

Schools 373 

Schotte,  G.  A.  W 375 

Scott,  Rev.  G.  K 107,  134,  157,  163 

Sermons,  stj'le  of. 80 

Sharrats,  Rev.  N.  G 354 

Shand,  Rev.  \V.  G 130,  355 

Shaw,  Harvey .• 139 

Shearer,  Rev.  J.  C 129,  271,  348,  350 

Sheely,  Rev.  V.  G 403 

Shepley,  Mrs.  P.  P 420 

Shepley,  Rev.  S.  H 420 

Sherrard,  Rev.  J.  H 2(>8 

Shields,  Rev.  J.  M 357,  390 

Shields,  Wm.  F 377 

Shirley,  Rev,  M.  M Ib4,  162 

Sibbett.  B.  L 407 

Simpson,  Rev.  J.  A.  E 268 

Slate  Lick  Classical  Institute 33,  417 

Slate  Lick  church 323 

Sloan,  Rev.  B.  S.,    118,   119,   132,  220,  266, 

392. 
Sloan,  Rev.  D.  H.,    1,  9,  11,  63,  64,  65,  84, 

145,  146,  178,  253,  417,  418. 

Sloan,  Georg-e  B 326,  419 

Sloan,  Miss  M.  Lizzie 417 

Sloan,  Prof.  I.  N 396 

Smicksburg  church 338 

Smith,  Rev.  D  M 137 

Smith,  George  B "   382 

Smith,  Rev.  Jesse  R 114,  171,  239 

Smith,  J.  W 3S2 

Snowden,  Rev.  N.  R 156,  239 

Spargrovc,  Rev.  George  M 294 

Special  services 43,  40 

Speer,  Rev.  Wm 228 

Spencer,  Rev.  J 119,  138 

Srader's  Grove  church 341 


PAGE. 

Stanley,  W.  H ,"01 

Stark,  Rev.  John 90,  100,  133;  360 

Stated  Clerks 28 

Statistical  summary 66,  67 

Stewart,  Rev.  A.  S 38;! 

Stewart,  Dr.  Robert 393,  398 

Stockdill,  Prof.  G.  C 399 

Stockton,  Rev.  John 100 

Stockton,  Rev.  Mr 90 

Stokes,  Prof.  James  H 409 

Stronystown  church 344 

Sustentation,  action  on 51 

Swan,  Rev.  Daniel 129,  266,  271 

Swan,  T.  W 348 

Swif  ,  Dr.  E.  P;. 315 

Synodical  Connections IS 

Tappnn,  Rev.  David  S 417 

Taylor,  Rev.  Mr 241 

Temperance,  action  on 52,  57,  210 

Thom,  J.  C 368,  38  ; 

Thompson,  Rev.  A.  S....     88,   270,  361,  37(', 
371. 

Thompson,  Rev.  F.  E 150,  COO 

Thompson,  Rev.  J.  1 163,  185 

Thompson,  Rev.  S.  H 315 

Thompson,  Rev.  T.  M 64,  19:; 

Thompson,  Rev.  W.  0 151,  39(. 

Thompson,  W.  R.,  M.  D ::93 

Thorn,  Rev.  A.  S 4'^^ 

Tliorn,  Prof.  Robert 402 

Total  abstinence. 53 

Townsend,  Rev.  D.  W .59,  84,  145,  287 

Touzeau,  Rev.  J.  G 30S 

Treasurers 28 

Tunnelton  church 34.> 

Union  church 34i 

Vacant  churches,  services  in 45 

Virtue,  :.ev.  Andrew 110,  Vi'i,  134 

Walker,  Dr.  R.  B 128 

Wallace,  T.  D 138 

War  ior  the  Union 5S 

Warren  church ^■^ 

Washington  church 351 

Weir,  Hon.  A.  D 64 

West  Glade  Run  church 35'.i 

West  Lebanon  church 179,  305 

White,  Rev.  John  W 31.5,  4(:fl 

Williams,  Prof.  J 410 

Williams,  Rev.  John 13V 

Williams,  Rev.  Lewis  W 2i9 

Wilson,  Rev.  A.  B ^i-' 

Wilson,  Rev.  John 189 

Wilson,  Rev.  AV.  J 129,  270,  348,  35a 

Winters,  Prof.  J.  W 4Uli 

Wolfe,  F.  P.  Esq ''' 


INDEX. 


PAOB. 

Wolfe,  Rev.  Mr 115 

Woman's  Christian  Temp.  Un 50 

Womnn's  F.  M.  Society "1,  78 

Woman's  H   M.  Society 68,  70 

WoocUnd,  Miss  Lizzie 40.S 


PAGE. 

Woodentl,  Dr.  W.W 58,  00,  02,  84,  92, 

102,  2C:0,  315,  317,  40O,  413,  414. 

Worthing^ton  church 369 

WylieS.  S 119,  138 

YounifDr.  Loyal 128 


Date  Due 



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